Cricket World Cup 2023 – W.I. Missing OUT!!! by M. Ramcharitar

‘Back to the drawing board’ … time for a nationwide first-class cricket- system/structure

Cricket matches that last for three or more days are often considered first-class cricket matches.

Guyana Amazon Warriors – CPL Champions 2023! - BEST PLAYER: CROWD/FANS!

The crowd turnout and support played a massive role and shouldn’t be underestimated, especially with His Excellency President Dr Irfaan Ali! who is a passionate cricket fan and his attendance at the playoffs and finals was indeed a positive sign for the sport's future in Guyana and the region.

While the standard for first-class cricket is a five-day match, there are also shorter versions of the game that are recognized as first-class. and follow the same basic rules and format as five-day matches, but with a shorter duration.

The key distinction that makes these matches first-class is the use of a red cricket ball, the longer format, and the adherence to traditional cricket rules and scoring methods. The longer duration allows for a more comprehensive examination of players' skills and tactics compared to shorter formats like One Day Internationals (ODIs) or T20 matches.

First-class cricket plays a pivotal role in developing cricketing talent. While it may be expensive, its significance in creating skilled cricketers cannot be underestimated. Investment in first-class cricket and the overall development of the sport is essential for the growth and success of cricket in Guyana.

India currently has 38 first class cricket teams:

The Ranji Trophy is the most prominent and prestigious first-class cricket competition and the reason why they keep producing world class players like a factory.

“… India today is not just the most powerful cricketing nation, bringing in almost 70% of "eyeballs", which translates into roughly 70% of global revenue, but also been the world's best performing side, for long periods topping the ICC rankings across formats.

Heading into the 2023 World Cup, India are again one of the top teams in Tests, one-day internationals and T20 matches.” – Ayaz Memon (Cricket Writer).

World Cup Predictions:

This will be a tiered world cup with India, Australia, England, and New Zealand displaying in dominant fashion to the world the importance of a strong/solid first-class cricket development system, from other playing countries.

Although this current India squad are solid in all areas of the game and have some of the most skilled players in the world, their home crowd/fans will play a massive role in why they will go on to win their third world cup title (1983 against mighty West Indies was their first).

Semi-Finals:

India V New Zealand

England V Australia

Final: India V Australia

Winner: Team India World Cup Champions!!!