ICC CEO picks India as the favorites for World Cup
The ICC World Cup 2019 is all set to start from May 30 onwards in England and Wales. There is excitement among fans, as pundits have started picking their favorites. Undoubtedly, India are considered to be one of the leading names going into the World Cup and ICC CEO David Richardson has picked Virat Kohli's men as the side to beat in the tourney.
Richardson on why India will be the team to beat
Richardson feels that India's massive progress will aid them in the coveted event. "It is extremely difficult to pick a winner. Obviously, India is playing really well. England has got their best ODI team in many years. South Africa has also performed. But the progress the Indian team has made in the recent years, it will be exceptionally difficult to beat them," Richardson said.
India have been in top form
India are in top form at the moment and have won four successive ODI series since their loss to England in July last year. Moreover, the dual series victory in Australia and New Zealand this year shows that India are on the right path. The Indian team has clicked well in all the departments and things look bright for them.
England could challenge India for the World Cup trophy
Besides India, England have a strong chance to clinch the title. England are a top quality side. They are currently ranked number one in the ICC ODI Rankings. Eoin Morgan's men also will enjoy home advantage in this edition. England go into the World Cup with the least number of issues. They have a settled side and plenty of depth in every department.
Number four position in batting the major concern
India have a few issues going into the World Cup. They sorted out the third pacer problem and have built up a strong bowling line-up. Further, the batting looks strong and so does the bench strength. But the number four position in batting is a cause of concern. Ambati Rayudu hasn't looked convincing. Should they keep backing Rayudu? Or should MS Dhoni be promoted?
World Cup: A look at India's ideal playing XI
According to us this should be India's ideal playing XI: Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli (captain), MS Dhoni (wicket-keeper), Dinesh Karthik, Kedar Jadhav, Hardik Pandya, Kuldeep Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah.
India's matches in 2019 World Cup- Dates and venue
June 5: India vs South Africa (Southampton). June 9: India vs Australia (The Oval). June 13: India vs New Zealand (Nottingham). June 16: India vs Pakistan (Manchester). June 22: India vs Afghanistan (Southampton). June 27: India vs West Indies (Manchester). June 30: England vs India (Birmingham). July 2: India vs Bangladesh (Birmingham). July 6: India vs Sri Lanka (Leeds).
