THE ICC CRICKET WORLD CUP 2019 AND MY FAVORITES TO WIN….

Cricket fever returns! And it doesn’t get any bigger than this! The ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 is scheduled to start on the 30th of May until the 14th of July , giving fans about one and a half months of blockbuster entertainment. The tournament this time consists of 10 teams in 1 group with each team playing each other once in the group stage and the top 4 teams advancing to the knockouts.

The teams are in , with each side picking their strongest team of 15 players based on form , efficiency and adaptability to the tough English conditions. Despite all 10 teams looking very strong , there are some in my opinion that have a slight edge over the others. So here’s my analysis of the top 5 strongest contenders for the coveted trophy:-

5. NEW ZEALAND

The dark horses of the tournament for sure , along with West Indies. Age may not be completely on their side but they have an experienced line-up which can be beneficial in an important tournament such as this. If Trent Boult receives enough support from the other end in the bowling department , the Kiwis can go very far in the course of the tournament. (KEY PLAYERS: Kane Williamson , Ross Taylor , Trent Boult)

4. SOUTH AFRICA

The Proteas may not have their king , Mr.360 AB De Villiers anymore but they surely cannot be written off just yet. A young , exuberant , talented side that is ready to win and stop being called the ‘chokers’. Led by Faf Du Plessis , South Africa have what it takes to prevail , provided that their middle order performs and their all-rounders shine. (KEY PLAYERS: Faf Du Plessis , Kagiso Rabada , Dale Steyn)

3. INDIA

With the aggression of Kohli and the calm attitude of Dhoni , this Indian side is a good mix of youth and experience. If the blue devils can sort out the no.4 conundrum , their batting will have great depth and flair. Another big necessity for India is for the pacers to step up consistently and get important wickets regularly , which will definitely boost India’s chances of being victors and regaining the cup. (KEY PLAYERS: MS Dhoni , Virat Kohli , Jasprit Bumrah)

2. AUSTRALIA

Probably the most balanced side of the World Cup , the Australians will look to defend their crown in England. A really formidable side oozing with confidence and determination , with plenty of match winners in their ranks. If at all there is a questionable aspect to this side , it is whether or not their spinners will perform day in and day out in this format , which will be crucial for them to prevent an overdose of runs in the middle overs! (KEY PLAYERS: David Warner , Steve Smith , Mitchell Starc)

1. ENGLAND

The hosts of this edition are more than formidable ,and are the certain favorites to finally take home the World Cup as far as I am concerned , as long as they stick to the basics and carry the same confidence , form and mentality from all their recent international matches. Fabulous batting order with all the batsmen in sizzling-hot form , good variety in the bowling section , and an able fielding side. The English giants will definitely be hoping , with a real possibility of it happening , that “It’s coming home!” (KEY PLAYERS: Jos Buttler , Moeen Ali , Jofra Archer)