Mark your calendars for the highly anticipated 2023 World Cup (WC) opener, set to take place on Thursday, October 5 at the renowned Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. In an exciting rematch of the 2019 WC final, the defending champions England will face off against the runners-up New Zealand. It’s a clash that promises to capture the attention and enthusiasm of cricket fans worldwide.
To the surprise of many, the world’s largest cricket stadium failed to captivate fans, as empty stands were witnessed during the opening match. Despite tickets being available for as low as Rs 1,000 and even during the game itself, fan turnout was disappointing. The absence of an opening ceremony only further added to the letdown for spectators.
The 2023 Indian Premier League season opening between Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings was sold out early this year, in contrast to the 2023 World Cup.
Fans on X, the predecessor to Twitter, were shocked to see empty seats for the World Cup kickoff. Here are some of the further responses:
These pictures are looking so ugly, completely empty stadium just before the first ball ????
— Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) October 5, 2023
This is actually so, so bad! They ruined the first World Cup match. Not sure why they gave this match to Gujarat's state which has no cricket culture ????????????????
World Cup 2023: New Zealand Choose to Bowl First Against England in Opening Match
In the opening match of the 2023 World Cup, substitute captain Tom Latham of New Zealand chose to bowl first against England after winning the toss.
He stated during the toss:
“Going to have a bowl. Looks a reasonably good surface. Hopefully later on it gets better to bat. Preparation has been great. Guys came together from different parts of the world a week ago. Unfortunately, Kane’s not quite ready yet. Ferguson has got a bit of a niggle. Sodhi, Kane, Southee all miss out.”
Tom Latham
England captain Jos Buttler added:
“Would’ve bowled first as well. Looks a really good wicket. Preparation has been okay. Had a good series against NZ at home. Very proud of the achievement four years ago. Ben’s going to miss this game. Has a niggle with his hip. Guys missing out are Atkinson, Topley, Willey, and Stokes.”
Jos Buttler