In the lead-up to the much-awaited ICC ODI World Cup 2023, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir has opened up on his insights on what could be an important moment for the Indian team. According to Gambhir, the first match against the mighty Australian side, scheduled for October 8th at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, holds a lot of importance to India’s hope to win the World Cup.

“Look, I have always said this, and there is no doubt in this, that if you want to win the World Cup, then you have to beat Australia. In 2007 when we won the World Cup, we defeated Australia in the semifinal. In 2011 when we won the World Cup, we beat Australia in the quarterfinal. Australia is the strongest team in any ICC tournament,” Gautam Gambhir said on Star Sport Star Cast expert show ‘Mission World Cup’

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On the other hand, former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson opined on the potential finalists of the ICC World Cup 2023. Watson believes it will be an epic showdown between arch-rivals India and Australia as well. He also added that with a home advantage and a formidable lineup, India will go all the way in the tournament as well.

“Definitely going to back Australia with the caliber of players they have. They have got a few question marks going into this World Cup, for sure, they certainly know how to step up in these big games.” He concluded, “And India, being at home, they’d know the conditions better than anyone, their bowlers are obviously on fire at the moment. So, India with their firepower, especially with their top order in particular, they certainly can go all the way. So, for me, Australia and India would be an incredible final.”