Former Sri Lanka cricketer Muttiah Muralitharan opines that in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, India, Australia, and England appear to be the frontrunners for the semi-finals, yet determining the ultimate victor remains a captivating uncertainty to the sport.
The legendary Sri Lankan spin maestro, who participated in three World Cup finals and was a vital part of the 1996 championship-winning team at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, where a resilient and determined squad of Lankan Lions, under Arjuna Ranatunga’s leadership, etched their names in history.
Muralitharan, in an exclusive conversation with Mykhel, expressed that India, England, and Australia exhibit splendid form, positioning them as potential title contenders. However, he also sounded a note of caution regarding the resurgence of South Africa in the tournament.
When inquired about his pick for the dark horse of ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, the cricket legend, boasting 1200 international wickets, responded, “I believe South Africa will emerge as the dark horse this year, as they have displayed improved performance.”
South Africa made a resounding statement by securing a commanding 102-run victory over Sri Lanka in their tournament opener, amassing an imposing total of 428/5 in their allotted 50 overs, serving as an early warning to their adversaries.
South Africa have been most of the times termed as one of the favourite, but have failed so many times, which is why the fans call them the biggest choker in World Cup history. This year though, nobody have predicted the the Proteas to the challenge for the World Cup.
