Indian cricket superstar Virat Kohli shared his first thoughts on the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 schedule, expressing excitement for the tournament and his anticipation to play at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium. As India hosts the 50-over World Cup single-handedly for the first time, Kohli aims to lead his team to victory and end the nation’s decade-long wait for an ICC trophy.
Having captained India in the last edition of the World Cup in England, where India suffered a heart-wrenching loss to New Zealand in the semi-finals, Kohli is determined to bring home the coveted ICC trophy. The Indian team’s last triumph in an ICC event was in 2013, when MS Dhoni-led them to victory in the Champions Trophy. Kohli, a World Cup winner 2011, aims to recreate that success and make history again.
Wankhede Stadium holds a special place in Kohli’s heart as it was at this venue that India clinched the 2011 World Cup title by defeating Sri Lanka in the final. On that memorable occasion, Kohli expressed his eagerness to experience the electric atmosphere at Wankhede Stadium again. He fondly recalled his contribution of 35 runs in the final and acknowledged the significance of playing a home World Cup.
“Personally, I’m looking forward to playing in Mumbai. It’d be great to experience that atmosphere again,” Kohli told ICC.
Kohli highlighted his excitement for playing in Mumbai during the World Cup, acknowledging the passionate cricket-loving fans creating a unique city atmosphere. Recalling the victory’s impact on the senior players in 2011, Kohli expressed understanding and shared their enthusiasm for playing a World Cup on home soil.
“I was quite young then. I saw what it meant to the seniors. I can understand what they went through and how special it is to play a home world cup and how excited they are going to be,” Kohli added.
ICC World Cup 2023 Schedule Announced, Click Here To Check Full Schedule
The 2023 edition of the World Cup will give Kohli another opportunity to feel the exhilarating atmosphere of Wankhede Stadium. India’s clash with Qualifier 2 on November 2 will take place at this iconic venue, while the stadium will also host the semi-final on November 15. Kohli eagerly looks forward to reliving those special moments and is determined to make a significant impact.
India’s Group Matches and Opening Game: India’s group matches will be held across nine venues, including Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Pune, Dharamsala, Lucknow, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. The team’s campaign begins against Australia on October 9 in Chennai, setting the stage for an exciting and highly anticipated tournament.
