Pakistan beat Netherlands by 81 runs in World Cup opener, New Zealand thrashed England by nine wickets in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 opener in Ahmedabad on Friday.
Chasing a total of 283 runs, the Kiwis chased it down in just 36.2 overs with a run-rate of 7.78. Rachin Ravindra slammed his maiden ODI century (117 off 110 balls) and put on a 221-run partnership with Devon Conway (138 off 110 balls) for the fourth wicket.
Shubman Gill doubtful starter for India’s World Cup opener
Indian opener Shubman Gill is doubtful for India’s World Cup opener against Australia on Sunday after he was diagnosed with dengue fever. Gill was hospitalized on Thursday and is currently under observation. Ishan Kishan is likely to replace Gill in the opening slot if he is ruled out.
Pakistan skipper Babar Azam feeling “at home” in Hyderabad ahead of World Cup
Pakistan captain Babar Azam said that he is completely feeling “at home” in Hyderabad ahead of the Cricket World Cup 2023. Azam, who has played a lot of cricket in Hyderabad for Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League, said that he is familiar with the conditions and the pitch there.
Netherlands wary of Shaheen Afridi threat
The Netherlands team is wary of the threat posed by Pakistani pace bowler Shaheen Afridi ahead of their World Cup match on Saturday. Afridi is one of the most dangerous bowlers in the world and is in good form. Netherlands coach Ryan Campbell said that his team will need to be careful against Afridi and try to get him off the pitch as early as possible.
Bangladesh aims for improved World Cup returns
Bangladesh is aiming for an improved performance in the Cricket World Cup 2023 after disappointing campaigns in the previous two editions of the tournament.
Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal said that his team is confident of doing well in the World Cup and is targeting a place in the semi-finals.
