(Image source: X.com)
[Saba Sports News] It’s that day of the year. We are sitting here patiently waiting for the World Cup to begin, which now is just 16 hours away from getting into motion.
Defending champions England go up against the last edition’s runner-up New Zealand. While the World Cup final is a big occasion in itself, these two teams gave it their all to immortalize that match-of-the-ages even more.
The 2019 World Cup final went to the super over, which also ended in a tie but it was England, who laid their hands on the trophy due to the boundary count rule.
Now, as we draw closer to the 2023 World Cup opener, the flashes of that high-octane thriller are coming into our memories. It will be a mutual feeling for the New Zealand players as well.
In their attempt at redemption, they will be aiming to leave the ghosts of that final behind as another ultimate showdown awaits them on October 5 in Ahmedabad.
But can the Kiwis do it? They will be without their captain Kane Williamson and one of their most experienced fast-bowlers Tim Southee.
They will again be entering the tournament as the underdogs. The first match will be no different as they face one of the title contenders England.
But never ever look down on the Black Caps. Their batting seems to be clicking. While Matt Henry and Trent Boult would have to take up all the load on the pace-bowling front, they have veteran spinners in the form of Ish Sodhi and Mitchell Santner, who know what it takes to thrive in the Indian conditions.
That being said, England are still a better team and for New Zealand to get past their nemesis, they would have to punch about their weight, as usual.