Legendary Pakistani fast bowler Wasim Akram has expressed his confidence in the national team’s performance in the upcoming ICC World Cup, which will take place in India this year.
Akram, who himself was a formidable force during his playing days, also praised Pakistan’s captain and star batsman, Babar Azam, highlighting his exceptional skills and leadership qualities.
Speaking to the ICC, Akram stated, “We have a good side… a very good one-day side and are led by one of the modern-day greats in Babar Azam. As long as they are fit and stick to their game plan, they have a chance of performing well in the World Cup, especially considering the tournament will be played in India, on subcontinental conditions that suit our team.”
Regarding Babar Azam’s capabilities, Akram expressed his belief that the talented batsman can further elevate his game, stating, “I think he can [improve], as he is the best player we have. The whole country follows him, everything he does. He attracts crowds to the stadiums, whether it’s T20s, ODIs, or Test cricket. In my opinion, he possesses the most beautiful cover drive in the world.”
The International Cricket Council (ICC) recently unveiled the schedule for the highly anticipated Cricket World Cup 2023. The tournament will feature 10 teams competing across 10 different venues from October 5 to November 19. The opening match and the final will be held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
The World Cup will follow a round-robin format, with all participating teams facing each other in 45 league matches. The top four teams will advance to the semifinals, scheduled to take place in Mumbai on November 15 and in Kolkata on November 16. The knockout matches, including the semifinals and the final, will have reserve days to account for any weather interruptions.
Geoff Allardice, the Chief Executive of the ICC, expressed his excitement about the event, stating,
“We are delighted to release the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 schedule, which is always a significant milestone leading up to any global tournament. With millions of fans around the world eagerly anticipating the event, we are confident that this will be the greatest Men’s Cricket World Cup ever. In India, the teams will experience a unique and electrifying atmosphere, culminating in the champions lifting the trophy at the grandest cricket stadium in the world, Ahmedabad.”
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