Aakash Chopra, a former Indian opener and renowned cricket commentator, has expressed his expectations for the upcoming ICC World Cup 2023, which will be hosted by India. He anticipates that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will make the tournament a fantastic spectacle for the spectators by implementing various changes as part of stadium upgrades.
In a video shared on his YouTube channel, Chopra discussed some of the decisions made by the BCCI during their recent Apex Council Meeting. He specifically focused on the decision to upgrade stadiums and allocate funds for this purpose.
He suggested an allocation of 50 crore rupees per venue and emphasized the importance of creating a wonderful viewing experience for the fans. With the World Cup returning to India after a long time, Chopra believes that it is crucial to ensure the enjoyment of the viewers by enhancing their overall experience.
Chopra highlighted a few spectator-friendly changes that he believes should be implemented as part of the stadium upgrades. Firstly, he emphasized the need to cater to specially-abled individuals by providing ramps and ensuring their comfort during matches.
Secondly, he stressed the importance of clean and well-maintained washrooms and sanitation facilities. He emphasized the necessity of maintaining top-notch cleanliness standards in order to enhance the overall experience of the spectators.
Additionally, he suggested that all grounds should have a roof to provide shade during matches played in the afternoon heat. He also emphasized the provision of pure and free drinking water for the spectators’ convenience.
Furthermore, Chopra expressed his support for the BCCI’s decision to allow two bouncers per over in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, a domestic cricket tournament in India. He believes that this rule will help create a fair balance between the batsmen and the bowlers, adding excitement and competitiveness to the game.
India will host the Cricket World Cup 2023
He emphasized the significance of giving bowlers the option to use an additional bouncer to challenge the batsmen and level the playing field. Chopra also commented on the introduction of the ‘Impact Player’ rule in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, which mirrors a similar rule in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
This rule allows teams to induct a player at any point during the match, rather than being restricted to making the change before the 14th over of an innings. Chopra appreciated this decision by the BCCI, as it adds flexibility and strategic options for team management.
In addition, Chopra expressed his satisfaction with the BCCI’s decision to send both the men’s and women’s teams to the upcoming Asian Games. However, he noted that while the women’s team would comprise full-strength players, the men’s team would consist of players who will not be part of the World Cup squad.
This arrangement is due to the overlapping schedule of the Asian Games and the World Cup, and the BCCI’s intention to prioritize the preparation and performance of the World Cup squad. In summary, Aakash Chopra expects the BCCI to enhance the viewing experience of spectators during the ICC World Cup 2023 by implementing stadium upgrades.
He emphasized the need for ramps and facilities for specially-abled individuals, clean washrooms, top-notch sanitation, roofs for shade, and access to pure drinking water. Aakash Chopra also supported the BCCI’s decision to allow two bouncers per over in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, as well as the introduction of the ‘Impact Player’ rule.
While he applauded the BCCI’s decision to send both the men’s and women’s teams to the Asian Games, he acknowledged the limitations on player selection due to the World Cup schedule.
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