Zaheer Khan said it is tough to pick the finalists and the winner of the World Cup 2023.
Zaheer Khan, a former Indian pacer and 2011 World Cup winner, surprised many with his predictions for the semi-finalists of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, starting on Thursday, October 5, in India.
The legendary fast bowler said that everyone is just talking about India, England, Australia, and Pakistan being strong contenders to win the ODI World Cup 2023, but South Africa can emerge as a surprise package, given their combination for the tournament.
Notably, South Africa reached the ODI World Cup semi-finals in 1992, 1999, 2007, and 2015, but they have never qualified for the final.
Meanwhile, Zaheer Khan believes the Temba Bavuma-led South Africa team will be the dark horse at the CWC 2023, and they can surprise many with their performance during the showpiece event in India.
As reported by Hindustan Times, Zaheer Khan said at event: “Everyone seems to be talking about India, England, Australia, Pakistan and New Zealand as contenders, but I feel South Africa will be the dark horse at the World Cup this year.”
He added, “South Africa’s history when it comes to ICC tournaments isn’t great. They have this tag of 'chokers' also which goes with them. But somehow, looking at the way they played against Australia recently, I think they could be the dark horse. If certain players from their squad come good in the Indian conditions, they will definitely be a force to reckon with.”
Speaking about the possible winner of the 2023 World Cup, Zaheer said that it is hard to name the winner as anyone can win the trophy after making it to the top four.
He signed off by saying, “The format is such that if you manage to be in the top four at the end of the league stage, you only need two more days of good cricket to win the title. And in such a situation, anyone can beat anyone. How each team approaches the league stage and builds momentum will be crucial.”