Aakash Chopra predicts top four semi-finalists teams for World Cup 2023

According to Aakash Chopra, India stands out as a strong contender and a frontrunner for the tournament

PHOTO: File

Former indian cricketer turned analyst, Aakash Chopra, has shared his predictions for the top four semifinalist teams in the highly anticipated World Cup 2023 scheduled in October-November.

According to Chopra, the teams that are likely to secure a spot in the semi-finals are Pakistan, England, Australia, and India.

India stands out as a strong contender and a frontrunner for the tournament. However, he emphasized that Pakistan's impressive ODI team, England's consistent performance, and Australia's formidable lineup make them strong contenders for the semi-final positions as well.

“They (India) are the frontrunners but apart from them, the three other semi-finalists could be Pakistan, whose ODI team is very good, England and Australia. I feel you might see these four teams playing in the semi-finals,” he said.

Despite the strong lineup of predicted semi-finalists, the 45-year-old highlighted that New Zealand, known for their resilience and ability to excel in ICC events, could potentially challenge the established teams and make their mark in the tournament.

“I will be slightly surprised if any of them does not play the semi-finals, although you do get slightly surprised when the World Cup happens. The New Zealand guys are saying that they are also coming and it is an ICC event,” Chopra concluded.

The eagerly-awaited contest between India and Pakistan at this year's ICC Men's Cricket World Cup has been rescheduled to a different day, while details of eight other matches have also been changed.

The clash between India and Pakistan was originally slated to take place in Ahmedabad on Sunday, 15 October, but this has been moved a day earlier and will now be held at the same venue on Saturday, 14 October.

Pakistan’s World Cup 2023 schedule: