(Image Source: Getty Images)
[Saba Sports News] In the World Cup opener at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium on October 5, 2023, the cricketing world anticipates a thrilling match reminiscent of the infamous final at Lord’s four years ago. The World Cup has been in the spotlight for various reasons, including debates about the format, and a captivating match could inject much-needed excitement.
While there is a frenzy for tickets to India’s matches and other marquee games, the tournament’s success may depend on how other matches resonate with the public, particularly in India. Currently, no game other than the 2019 final holds a special place in the hearts of cricket fans, making this opener particularly significant.
Key players like Trent Boult, Ben Stokes, and Mark Wood promise exciting performances, and questions about England’s aggressive style in Indian conditions, New Zealand’s underdog status, and the absence of Kane Williamson and Tim Southee may find early answers.
The match in Ahmedabad will set the tone for the 48-day World Cup journey. England’s ultra-aggressive approach on Indian pitches, New Zealand’s challenges, and the impact of the match could provide a glimpse of what’s to come in this tournament.
Expectations for the match:
Date and Time: October 5, 2023, at 14:00 IST
Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
Weather: A warm day with potential for some movement for pacers as the lights come on.
Probable XI for England:
Jonny Bairstow, Dawid Malan, Joe Root, Ben Stokes/Harry Brook, Jos Buttler (c,wk), Liam Livingstone, Moeen Ali, Sam Curran, Chris Woakes, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood
Probable XI for New Zealand:
Devon Conway, Will Young, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (c,wk), Glenn Phillips, Jimmy Neesham/Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Matt Henry, Trent Boult, Lockie Ferguson
Key facts:
Dawid Malan has impressive recent records against New Zealand.
Joe Root has a strong track record in World Cup matches.
New Zealand has tackled Adil Rashid effectively in ODIs.
Quotes from captains:
Tom Latham, New Zealand’s stand-in captain, anticipates fantastic cricket in India and hopes for the World Cup’s continued success.
Jos Buttler, England’s captain, emphasizes the importance of player fitness and avoiding risks at the start of the tournament.