World Cup has kicked off in some style, Ben Stokes one-hand ripper and Oshane Thomas’ Deli Ali celebration have already set the tone of what could be a memorable tournament. With 10 teams in the fray, cricket analysts all around the globe have chosen their favourites with some going on to predict the full nature of the tournament.
Among them is one of the legendary players of New Zealand cricket, Brendon McCullum. The swashbuckling batsman has favoured the big three – England, India and Australia, to reach the semi-finals of the tournament, while for the fourth spot, he predicts a close fight between his national team – New Zealand, West Indies, South Africa and Pakistan.
The talented former Kiwi captain believes that Bangladesh would win just one game – against Sri Lanka. He has fancied Afghanistan to finish eight wins, coming against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.
Australia’s very own great cricketer Mark Waugh gave his two cents to McCullum, “I think England and Australia are certain semi-finalists. India not so sure but probably sneak in. Preparation a little suspect and batting lineup uncertain in the middle order. Big reliance on Kohli and Bumrah. NZ slightly ahead of WI and Sth Africa for 4th,” he replied.
Good summary. IMO I think England and Aust certain semi finalists. India not so sure but probably sneak in.Preparation a little suspect and batting lineup uncertain in the middle order. Big reliance on Kohli and Bumrah. NZ slightly ahead of WI and Sth Africa for 4th.
— Mark Waugh (@juniorwaugh349) May 31, 2019
McCullum backed home-team England to win 8 matches out of 9 league matches predicting one loss against Australia. As far as men in blue from India are concerned, he believes the two-time world cup winner’s only lose in the group stage will come against England.
