The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 is approaching, and cricket fans throughout the world are eagerly awaiting the tournament’s outcome. In a recent panel discussion, cricketing veterans Waqar Younis, Irfan Pathan, and Dale Steyn shared their thoughts on which teams might make the finals. Let’s have a look at Dale Steyn’s predictions and comments on the possible finalists.
Dale Steyn’s Heart Yearns for South Africa
Dale Steyn, the legendary South African pace bowler, holds a deep desire to see his home nation, South Africa, reach the ODI World Cup final. He points out the advantage South Africa possesses, with many of its players participating in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and being well-acquainted with Indian conditions. Notable names like David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen, and Kagiso Rabada have excelled in Indian conditions, adding strength to the South African squad.
Steyn expressed his admiration for South Africa’s prospects, saying, “It’s a tough one, you know my heart wants to go with South Africa making the final. I would love them to make the final, their team, a lot of their players play in the IPL, they play in India regularly. They got some guys like in David Miller and Heinrich Klaasen who really started to figure out those conditions and bat well there. Then, there is KG Rabada who has been bowling there for ages and a lot of their other senior players have played a lot of cricket there. So I feel like they have got the ability to go on and get to the finals with getting those players,” Steyn was quoted as saying to Star Sports.
India: A Formidable Opponent
While Steyn’s heart may lean towards South Africa, he acknowledges the strength of the host nation, India. With a rich cricketing heritage and familiarity with home conditions, Team India is considered a strong contender for the final. The squad boasts experienced IPL players and is widely regarded as one of the favorites to reach the pinnacle of the tournament.
England’s Ascension to the Top
Dale Steyn also casts his eye on England as another potential finalist. He recognizes England as a formidable force, with recent successes and depth in both batting and bowling departments. The defending champions are geared up to kickstart their World Cup campaign against the runner-ups from the previous tournament, New Zealand.
Dale Steyn’s predictions for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 have sparked interest and controversy among cricket fans throughout the world. While South Africa tugs at his heartstrings, he recognises India and England’s competitive strength. As the ODI World Cup 2023 approaches, all eyes will be on these formidable teams, and fans can only hope that the tournament lives up to expectations.
Also read AB de Villiers thoughts
