Cricket News: England set to tussle against New Zealand in 2023 WC opener

According to sources, the defending champions England will face the losing finalists of the 2019 World Cup as the curtain raiser of this year's ICC mega event. The two nations are expected to meet in the World Cup opener on October 5 in Ahmedabad, with the final also planned for November 19 at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

According to Cricbuzz, hosts India will face Australia in their season opener in Chennai. Meanwhile, the source stated that India's arch-rivals, Pakistan, have agreed to travel to the host country for the global competition, despite their current conflict over the Asia Cup preparations later this year.

While the World Cup opening and final are set to take place in Ahmedabad, Pakistan has expressed reservations about playing its games at the Narendra Modi Stadium, demanding a change of venue for their group games.

They have agreed, though, to hold the final in Ahmedabad provided their side qualifies for the summit clash. The Men Green are expected to play games in Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bengaluru, according to a preliminary itinerary.

The quadrennial event will be held in 12 cities, including Kolkata, Delhi, Indore, Dharamsala, Guwahati, Rajkot, Raipur, and Mumbai, in addition to the aforementioned places.

While Mohali and Nagpur are notable omissions from the list, Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium is expected to host one of the semifinals.

After the end of the ongoing 16th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is likely to make an official announcement. The governing body of cricket is expected to have the final say on fixture and venue scheduling.

The tournament will feature eleven teams, including hosts India, with South Africa being the most recent team to secure direct qualifying.

Sports updates please follow us on Twitter