The latest edition of the ODI World Cup is less than a week away. The warm-up matches have already begun as teams are doing some fine-tuning ahead of the showpiece event.
Many experts and fans have already predicted their picks to reach the semifinals. Former India allrounder Yusuf Pathan, who won the T20 World Cup in 2007 and the ODI World Cup in 2011, is the latest to throw his hat in the ring, as the 40-year-old predicted India, England, Australia, and Pakistan to reach the semi-final stage of the competition.
“Watching this World Cup closely and backing our #TeamIndia 🇮🇳 all the way! My top four picks for the semi finals are India, England, Australia, and Pakistan. Some exciting cricket ahead!” Yusuf wrote on his official ‘X’ (formerly known as Twitter) handle.
Watching this World Cup closely and backing our #TeamIndia 🇮🇳 all the way! My top four picks for the semi finals are India, England, Australia, and Pakistan. Some exciting cricket ahead! 🏏 #WorldCup #TopFour
— Yusuf Pathan (@iamyusufpathan) September 30, 2023
India are the top side in ODI cricket in terms of the ICC team rankings. Pakistan and Australia are close behind at No. 2 and 3, respectively. Defending champions England, on the other hand, are placed at No. 5 in the rankings.
Opening matches for India, England, Australia, and Pakistan
England will play in the curtain-raiser against New Zealand in Ahmedabad on October 5. Pakistan will be in action against qualifiers Netherlands in Hyderabad on October 6. The Men in Blue will begin their campaign on October 8, when they take on Australia in Chennai.
India are hosting the World Cup exclusively for the first time. They are one of the strongest contenders to go the distance. Australia need no introduction in the 50-over World Cup as they have won the title on five occasions, which is the most by any nation. Pakistan and England have won the marquee event on one occasion apiece.