Ahmedabad, India, is set to be the epicenter of cricketing excitement as it hosts the prestigious 2023 Men’s 50-over World Cup. Reports have surfaced indicating that the tournament will commence with an electrifying match between England and New Zealand on October 5. The Narendra Modi Stadium in Motera will witness the grand finale on November 19, bringing the thrilling competition to a close.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), being the host, holds the authority to finalize the schedule after obtaining the necessary approvals. Fans eagerly await the official announcement, which is likely to occur once the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) concludes.
Pakistan agreed to play in India
In a noteworthy development, reports have also surfaced confirming that Pakistan has agreed to tour India for the World Cup, despite the ongoing uncertainties surrounding the Asia Cup.
However, it seems that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has expressed reservations about playing their high-stakes encounter against India in Ahmedabad. As a result, Najam Sethi, the chairman of PCB, recently visited the International Cricket Council (ICC) office in Dubai, presumably to discuss the matter.
India-Pakistan match in Ahmedabad
According to insiders, India’s opening encounter is expected to take place in Chennai against arch-rivals Australia. Moreover, cricket enthusiasts can mark their calendars for the highly anticipated clash between India and Pakistan on October 15, a Sunday, which could most probably take place at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
While the PCB has given its preliminary consent to participate in the championship in India, it appears that the board is seeking some venue adjustments to safeguard its interests. Nevertheless, sources indicate that should the Pakistani team reach the final, they have agreed to play in Ahmedabad.
Shortlisted venues for the World Cup
As per the tentative schedule, Pakistan’s matches are slated to take place in Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bengaluru. The BCCI has allocated venues in the South Zone, with Chennai receiving additional matches due to its reputation as a peaceful host with a sports-loving crowd.
In addition to Ahmedabad and the three southern centers, Kolkata, Delhi, Indore, Dharamsala, Guwahati, Rajkot, Raipur, and Mumbai have been designated as venues for the tournament. Mohali and Nagpur, unfortunately, did not make the list. The iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai is likely to host one of the semifinal matches. Each participating team will play nine league games, ensuring that most, if not all, venues will witness an India game.
The World Cup structure
The World Cup will feature a total of 10 teams competing in 48 thrilling encounters. India, England, Australia, New Zealand, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Bangladesh have secured direct qualification for the championship, with South Africa being the most recent addition to the list.
The remaining two spots will be determined through a qualifying tournament in June-July, to be held in Zimbabwe. This tournament will feature two former champions, West Indies and Sri Lanka, along with the Netherlands, Ireland, Nepal, Oman, Scotland, the United Arab Emirates, and host nation Zimbabwe.
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