As the global cricket spectacle kicks off, India sets its sights on a third World Cup victory. This tournament arrives as India enjoys growing international confidence and the prospect of cricket, a sport that both unites and divides the subcontinent like no other, joining the Olympic elite.
This epic competition will witness 10 nations competing in 48 matches over 46 days across 10 different venues. However, preparations have faced challenges, including tensions surrounding arch-rivals Pakistan, who initially considered boycotting the event due to border issues.
Security concerns prompted adjustments to the schedule, with the India-Pakistan clash moved to Ahmedabad, causing a cascade of rescheduled fixtures. Nevertheless, Pakistan received a warm welcome upon their arrival in Hyderabad.
Torrential rain added its own challenge, leading to abandoned warm-up matches and altered schedules.
The tournament’s opening and closing matches are set to take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the world’s largest cricket arena, with a capacity exceeding 130,000 seats. This city, once home to Mahatma Gandhi, is also considered a potential host for the 2036 Olympics.
Cricket, in its T20 format, is on the cusp of being named an Olympic sport for the 2028 Games, a decision to be discussed at the upcoming International Olympic Committee meeting in Mumbai.
This gathering of India’s top cricket talent comes at a time when India has overtaken China as the world’s most populous country and solidified its position as the fifth-largest economy. Prime Minister Modi seeks to position India as a global representative, courting Western nations despite human rights concerns.
India, the defending champions, boasts cricket superstar Virat Kohli, while Pakistan, champions in 1992, look to captain Babar Azam to turn the tide in their favor.
Defending champions England rely on the explosive Ben Stokes, who played a pivotal role in their 2019 triumph.
The tournament may witness the farewell performance of Bangladesh skipper Shakib al Hasan, a prominent all-rounder in ODI cricket.
Australia, a five-time champion, banks on veteran David Warner, and South Africa grapples with injuries to key players.
Afghanistan, with its array of spinners, will be a force to reckon with on Indian pitches, and Sri Lanka seeks redemption after a recent Asia Cup loss to India.
Completing the lineup, the Netherlands, who navigated a challenging qualifying round in July, enter the competition as formidable contenders.
