ICC Cricket World Cup 2023

Wasim was part of the famous team that helped Pakistan claim their only World Cup title at the MCG back in 1992, and the legendary quick thinks a second trophy may come later this year if their best players can remain fit and in form. Pakistan are led by the No.1-ranked ODI batter in Babar Azam and have an experienced group of players to support him.

The World Cup kicks off on October 5 with a repeat of the 2019 Final as England take on New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Hosts India begin their campaign on October 8 against five-time World Cup winners Australia in Chennai. A total of 10 teams will participate at the showcase event, the first eight having already qualified through the Cricket World Cup Super League. The final two spots will be determined at the end of the Qualifier tournament in Zimbabwe, which concludes on July 9.

Initially, Wankhede and MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai were near lock-ins as venues for the semifinal matches. However, last-minute change has been made in the much-awaited schedule and Eden Gardens in Kolkata has emerged as a strong favourite. 

This was achieved after the trophy was attached to a bespoke stratospheric balloon, and some stunning shots were captured of the trophy sitting on the edge of the Earth's atmosphere from 4k cameras. According to ICC, the 2023 edition of the trophy tour will be the biggest by far, giving the fans a chance to connect with the coveted piece of silverware in various countries and cities around the globe.

According to an ESPNcricinfo report, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) under its chairman Najam Sethi has written to the ICC, following the release of a draft schedule to all participating countries last week, to highlight they cannot unilaterally approve the fixture list.

According to an ESPNcricinfo report, the BCCI shared the draft schedule with the ICC, which then sent it to the participating countries for feedback before a final schedule is put out early next week. As per the initial draft schedule of the 2023 ODI World Cup, prepared by the BCCI., England and New Zealand are set to meet in the tournament-opener on October 5.