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AB de Villiers reveals his semi-finalists for ICC World Cup 2023

AB de Villiers employed his cricketing acumen to single out four teams that he believes will excel in the tournament

AB de Villiers reveals his semi-finalists for ICC World Cup 2023 PHOTO: AFP

Former South Africa wicketkeeper-batsman, AB de Villiers, has revealed his top four teams for the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup in India later this year in October.

In an engaging session on his YouTube channel, De Villiers disclosed his preferences, selecting a trio of non-subcontinental teams – namely Australia, England, and South Africa – as his top contenders to secure a spot in the tournament's final four.

“I have gone with three non-subcontinental teams, which is very risky, but I will stick to it,” De Villiers said.

The cricket veteran went on to predict that the host nation, India, would ultimately emerge victorious in the World Cup, with the tournament's culmination serving as a fairy-tale ending for the home team.

De Villiers further threw his support behind his native squad, South Africa, to secure a semi-final berth, despite acknowledging Pakistan's strong likelihood of qualification. His rationale for including South Africa in the elite quartet rested on the team's potential and capabilities.

“Our boys [South African squad] will be there, we’ve got a very good team, a bit inexperienced, but a very good team. I know Rob Walter, our white ball coach, knows exactly what he is doing,” he added.

The ICC World Cup 2023 is slated to take place in India during October and November, featuring a total of 10 participating teams. The tournament is set to kick off on October 5, with the final match scheduled for November 19.