With the ODI World Cup set to commence on the 5th of October later this year across ten venues in India, Zero Wicket takes a closer look at the recently announced fixture list and shortlists five of the biggest clashes you need to tune in for.
2. India vs Australia, 8th October 2023, Chennai
Two teams packed with superstars and a historic bitter rivalry always makes India vs Australia a must-see cricketing battle. This time they face off at the M.A Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, a venue where spinners have dominated in recent history. One might believe this makes India clear favorites due to a higher quality spin-bowling contingent, however, Australia have an 83 percent record in ODI's having won 5 out of the 6 games they have played in Chennai.
In the 50-over format, Australia have emerged victorious in 27 more games than India, winning 32 of their 82 victories on Indian soil. Statistically, Australia goes into this game having the upper hand, having also won the recently concluded 3-match series in India earlier this year. In the first game of the world cup for either side, India will look to start off with a couple of points in a bid to recreate a home world cup win like that of 2011, whereas Australia will have their eyes on their next ICC trophy after their World Test Championship glory.
