As the Men’s ODI World Cup 2023 reaches its midway point, the excitement and thrill continue to captivate cricket fans worldwide. With each team having completed five matches, India stand undefeated, proudly atop the points table.
However, the event has not been short of memorable moments, making the job of picking the best quite challenging. Nevertheless, the ICC commentary panel has chosen their most cherished moments from the tournament.
Ian Bishop shares his most cherished World Cup moment
Renowned broadcaster and former West Indies cricketer, Ian Bishop, recounted an extraordinary moment that captured his heart. He chose Rachin Ravindra’s century in his maiden World Cup game as his top moment. In a video shared by the ICC on their official Instagram, Bishop expressed his admiration for the young cricketer.
“My moment so far would be Rachin Ravindra scoring a hundred on his World Cup debut against England in that opening encounter in Ahmedabad. I thought the way he played with such brilliance and skill against England was a dream come true for him and his family. So that moment I would choose so far as my number 1,” said Bishop.
Shane Watson picks a high-voltage clash
Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson shares a moment of intense rivalry that took center stage during the tournament. Watson’s favorite moment was the high-voltage clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan. Watson was particularly impressed by the electric atmosphere.
“My favorite moment has to be the India and Pakistan game in Ahmedabad. The crowd, the ground absolutely packed, and how India played is something really special,” said Watson.
Simon Doull’s appreciation for a group of star performers
Former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull appreciated a collective effort that has left a mark on the World Cup. Doull marveled at the performance of South African batters in the ongoing World Cup.
“It’s a series of moments. It’s all about South Africa’s batting. From Quinton de Kock to Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, David Miller. I have loved watching it, enjoyed it, and hopefully, more to come,” Doull remarked.
Pommie Mbangwa reveals the moment that shaped the tournament
Former Zimbabwe cricketer Pommie Mbangwa reflected on a surprising turn of events that had a significant impact on the World Cup. Mbangwa’s favorite moment was Afghanistan’s stunning victory over England.
Mbangwa noted that this win marked the beginning of a trend of upsets in the World Cup. He said: “I’d have to go with the Delhi moment. I say Delhi moment because Afghanistan beat England there, and it was the moment when it began. That victory kind of began some upsets, but it’s huge for Afghanistan to beat England.”
Kass Naidoo’s pick for an unexpected upset
South African broadcaster Kass Naidoo revealed her favorite moment as Netherlands beating South Africa in Dharamsala. She praised the performance and considered it no fluke, mentioning it was the second time in 11 months that Netherlands had beaten South Africa. Naidoo anticipates more upsets in the second half of the group stage.
“My favourite moment has to be Netherlands beating South Africa in Dharamsala. It was special. It was no fluke. It was the second time in 11 months they have beaten South Africa. I get a feeling that a few more upsets are coming up in the second half of the group stage,” said Naidoo.