As the countdown to the much-anticipated ICC World Cup 2023 inches closer, former Bangladesh cricketer Athar Ali Khan has unveiled his predictions for the four semi-finalists in the prestigious event scheduled to commence on October 5th, culminating in the final match on November 19th. In his assessment, Khan confidently places Rohit Sharma’s Indian team among the semi-final contenders.
With less than 40 days remaining until the grand sporting spectacle, cricket pundits have begun forecasting the potential contenders for the coveted semi-final slots. In an interview with RevSportz, Athar Ali Khan shares his insights into the teams he foresees reaching the semi-finals of the ODI World Cup.
Khan initiates his selections by naming Bangladesh as one of the potential semi-finalists, followed by an assured assertion that India, under Rohit Sharma’s leadership, will undoubtedly secure a place in the semi-finals. He goes on to highlight Australia’s formidable team, backed by their quality all-rounders, skilled fast bowlers, and powerful batting lineup. For the fourth spot, Khan contends that the battle will likely be between Pakistan and England.
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“I’ve already mentioned Bangladesh and I have firm faith in India’s qualification. Australia, too, presents a formidable lineup with a blend of versatile all-rounders, potent fast bowlers, and explosive batsmen. These three are my picks, and the final spot could be a toss-up between Pakistan and England,” Athar Ali Khan reveals when discussing the anticipated semi-finalists.
The forthcoming tournament carries particular significance for Rohit Sharma, who will lead the Indian team. With the team’s 10-year ICC trophy drought looming large, Sharma shoulders the responsibility to break the streak. Having narrowly missed the opportunity to clinch the World Test Championship (WTC) in 2023 against Australia, the Indian skipper aims to secure a coveted ICC title this time around.
The return of key players such as Shreyas Iyer, Jasprit Bumrah, and KL Rahul to the Asia Cup 2023 squad is anticipated to fortify the team’s strength and bolster the playing 11. India’s journey in the ODI World Cup is set to commence on October 8th, when they take on Australia at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.