The cricketing world is abuzz with excitement as the ICC Men’s ODI Cricket World Cup 2023 is set to kick off in Ahmedabad. The tournament’s opening clash will see a rematch of the 2019 World Cup final, with England and New Zealand locking horns once again on October 5th at the magnificent Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, India.
However, it’s a fixture later in the competition that has cricket fans worldwide on the edge of their seats. On October 14th, arch-rivals Pakistan and India will collide in Ahmedabad, promising a spectacle that transcends boundaries. The Indian team, often referred to as the Blues, aims to secure their eighth World Cup triumph against Pakistan, while the Green Shirts from Pakistan determined to secure their maiden victory on this grand stage.
Adding an extra layer of excitement to this epic rivalry, Star Sports, the official broadcaster of the tournament, has resurrected the beloved “Mauka Mauka” actor in a brand-new advertisement titled “8KaWait” in anticipation of the World Cup.
This intriguing advertisement highlights India’s unblemished record against Pakistan in the 50-over World Cup. In all seven previous encounters, the Blues emerged victorious. Nevertheless, the advertisement has ignited a passionate response, particularly from Pakistani fans who have swiftly retaliated, reminding India of the T20 World Cup 2021 when Pakistan handed India a crushing defeat by 10 wickets.
Interestingly, not only Pakistani fans but also some Indian supporters have voiced their disapproval of the new commercial. The reactions on social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), have been nothing short of electric, showcasing the intense anticipation and fervor surrounding this marquee clash.
Notably, this isn’t the first time Star Sports has used the “Mauka Mauka” concept. Prior to the 2015 World Cup, a similar ad released, capturing the imagination of cricket enthusiasts as India prevailed over Pakistan by 76 runs.
As the World Cup unfolds, it’s important to note that the tournament will follow a round-robin format, with all participating teams competing in 45 league matches. The top four teams will then advance to the semifinals, slated for November 15th in Mumbai and November 16th in Kolkata. To ensure the smooth progression of the knockout stage, reserve days have allocated for the semifinals and the grand finale, scheduled for November 19th.
