Team India's all-format skipper Rohit Sharma reacted to ICC announcing the official schedule for upcoming ODI World Cup 2023 in India. The senior batter said he expects the mega intercontinental tournament in the country to be a highly-competitive affair since "the game has become faster". Rohit Sharma-led team India will aim to end their ICC title drought, win their third title and the second at home when they kickstart their campaign against five-time winners Australia in Chennai on October 8.
"This World Cup is going to be very competitive as the game has become faster and teams are playing more positively than ever before," Rohit was quoted as saying in an ICC release.
"All this augurs well for fans worldwide, promising them many thrilling moments. We look forward to preparing well and being at our best this October-November," he added.
ODI World Cup 2023 in India will start from 5th October and the final match of the mega ICC event will be played on 19th November. The tournament will kickoff with a thrilling encounter between New Zealand and England in Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium.
India have to play its nine matches of the league stage at various venues including Kolkata, Mumbai, New Delhi, Lucknow and Bengaluru.
After starting their WC campaign against Australia, team India will square off against Afghanistan on October 11 in Delhi. The much-hyped India vs Pakistan ODI World Cup 2023 match will be held in Ahmedabad on 15th October.
Due to diplomatic tensions, the two neighbors now only play against each other in ICC and ACC (Asian Cricket Council) events. The last match between the two countries took place during the T20 World Cup in Australia last year. India's other big matches include matches against New Zealand and England in Dharamsala and Lucknow on October 22 and 29 respectively