Former Indian cricketer and cricket expert Aakash Chopra said that Australia stands out as a top contender to secure a spot in the top four of the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.

Chopra further mentioned that regardless of the playing conditions, the formidable combination of Steve Smith, David Warner, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, and Glenn Maxwell is expected to propel the Australian team to the semifinals of the ODI World Cup 2023.

Issuing a warning to the other nine participating teams in the World Cup 2023, the cricket expert said that if the Men in Yellow advance to the semifinals, they will undeniably pose a significant threat in the knockout stages of the upcoming showpiece event in India.

Read Also: CWC 2023: Virat Kohli flies back to Mumbai due to personal emergency

Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube Channel: “Australia is one of the favorite to reach the final four. Irrespective of the conditions, I feel Steve Smith, David Warner, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, and Glenn Maxwell will combine to take the Aussies to the final four. If this side in yellow reaches the final four, they will be extremely dangerous in the knockouts.”

He added, “They have not finalized their keeper. Both Josh Inglis and Alex Carey are good players, but who will play in the XI? Maxwell claimed four wickets, but Australia neneededim more with the bat. This is one area which is still a bit of a concern. Spin is a potential problem that they might encounter.”

Chopra signed off by saying, “Cameron Green and Marcus Stoinis, the role is not clear at all. Stoinis’ chances to perform are bright because he bats better in the lower order compared to Green. The team is good, let’s see how they go. My prediction is they will reach the top four.”