March 2015
Finally the 8 best teams do actually go through to the quarters. I feel a bit for the Irish though. They managed to beat a test playing side and yet couldn’t go through on NRR. Having said that I am happy West Indies got through. Yes NZ is tough and are the form team, but on the small ground in Wellington, of the big West Indian hitters get going, watch out! And lineups are deadly.
SA vs SL is an unpredictable game. Sri Lanka has been batting exceptionally well and their bowling has fed off that. Their weekness lies in if Sangakkara, Dilshan and Jayawardene have a collective failure. SA for me is still playing a batsman short and they haven’t chased well. This is mouthwatering game and I am going to go for SL simply for their experience on big days.
India vs Bangladesh: Bangladesh has been superb especially against England with reverse wing. India has been the surprise package. Everyone has got a hit everyone has bowled. They have found their balance and have come out of the hole a couple of times. Bangladesh cannot be taken lightly. They have a couple of batsmen in form and their bowlers have been terrific. I’ll still go with India on form.
Australia vs Pakistan: This is the match of the quarters. Pakistan have resurrected and how. Their bowling has been special especially in Power plays. Batting will be their weak link but will look to Misbah to keep them alive. Australia have just had one bad game but still feel their batting is vulnerable with too many attacking players. For sheer balance in their team I’ll go with Australia.
New Zealand vs West Indies: West Indies have managed to stay afloat and will need Gayle to fire on the big day. Their bowlers have the firepower to shut opposition down but lack consistency. New Zealand have been the form team in the tournament and look too strong for West Indies.So there it is my semi final line up: Sri Lanka, India, Australia, New Zealand.Bring it on!
THE CRICKET ROUND UP 