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Ravi Shastri Names Three 'Clear Favourites' For World Cup 2023; Pakistan Excluded

image-lna9gjlhPakistan excluded by Ravi Shastri [Twitter]

From reigning champion at Lord's in 1983 and plying his trade as an allrounder in the three editions of the tournament to then elevating the cricket watching experience for fans as a commentator at the following World Cups, Ravi Shastri has seen both walks of life in his career on and off the field. 

Having been in the thick of the action in his capacity as a player, commentator and coach over the last 40 years, Shastri knows the game inside out and is rightfully one of the prominent experts set to call the action at the 2023 World Cup in India. 

Bringing all his experience into play, the outspoken personality came up with three title contenders and firm favourites for the ultimate triumph on Indian shores this October-November. 

Of the 10 participating nations, Shastri believes tournament hosts India alongside five-time winners Australia and trophy holders England are prime candidates to lift the global crown. 

Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Shastri was asked to name his four semifinalists for the 2023 World Cup and the ex-cricketer revealed India, Australia and England as his favourites for the trophy while also picking out one of Pakistan and South Africa as potential winner of the fourth-spot race. 

Shastri picks his favourites

"India, Australia, England.. I pick them straight (as favourites and definite semifinalists)," said Shastri. "Now that fourth one is going to be a challenge (because) with Naseem Shah not there, Pakistan's strength diminishes a bit but they know these conditions very well. I would say South Africa are (also) playing good cricket. So I think it's between Pakistan and South Africa."

Surprisingly, Shastri ignored 2019 World Cup runners-up and perennial darkhorses New Zealand in his list of tournament contenders. The Kiwis may not be favourites in anyone's book but have a documented history of punching above their weight at ICC tournaments and share a wealth of experience within their ranks of playing in Indian conditions. 

New Zealand will be taking on defending champions England in the opening game of the marquee competition in Ahmedabad on Thursday (October 5). South Africa's first game is scheduled on October 7 in Delhi versus Sri Lanka. Team India will begin their campaign with a face-off against the Aussies in Chennai on October 8.