SRINAGAR: Former Australian Cricketer and International Coach, Davenell Frederick Whatmore, asserted on Saturday that the hosts of the World Cup 2023 India, hold a significant advantage to claim the title this year.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a function in Srinagar’s outskirts, Whatmore expressed his delight over his visit to the valley. He mentioned that before the onset of winter, the current time in Kashmir is splendid, with the local people and the weather being exceptional.
“It’s wonderful to return to Kashmir during this time of the year, just before winter arrives. The people and the weather are terrific here. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Doon School as the Secretary of the Wimot Foundation,” Whatmore stated.
“I am here representing the Wimot Foundation as its Secretary to assess the excellent facilities provided to the students by the school,” he added.
When asked about his choices for the top four teams in the World Cup 2023, Whatmore emphasized that India, as the host team, currently possesses a significant advantage.
“It’s an exciting prospect for everyone, as the host country holds a distinct advantage. England, the defending champions, also stand a good chance, having strengthened their squad. Australia has consistently performed well in the World Cup, under all conditions, so I expect them to be formidable competitors. As for the fourth team, it could be a toss-up between Pakistan, Sri Lanka, South Africa, and New Zealand, to emerge as the top contenders in the World Cup,” he remarked.
Notably, ten teams, including India as the host, have geared up for the World Cup 2023. The warm-up games commenced on September 29, with the first official match scheduled to take place between New Zealand and England in Ahmedabad at the Narendra Modi Stadium.(KNO)
