CWC 2019: Gautam Gambhir reveals his top favourites for the World Cup

Ten best ODI teams will fight the ultimate battle of supremacy in England and Wales.

Australia won series against India and Pakistan before going to England | Getty

Former India opener Gautam Gambhir reckons defending champion Australia will begin this year's 50-over ICC ODI World Cup in UK as massive favourites to lift that beautiful trophy once again. Gambhir also believes India and hosts England will be the other title contenders of the event. 

"Australia are my first favourite. They should definitely play the final and their opposition in the final will be between two of my joint second-favourite teams, England and India," he told TOI

The Virat Kohli-led Indian side is definitely one with various strengths, especially its experienced top three and that robust bowling attack, including quality pacers and wicket-taking spinners. 

"As far as batting is concerned, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will have to score heavily. In the bowling, Jasprit Bumrah will be the X-factor," Gambhir said. "It should be a very interesting World Cup and there will be a tough fight among at least six countries. Each team will have to play with each other in this World Cup. Teams will have to be on their toes for all the matches. No team can afford to relax in any of the group league matches."

Captain Eoin Morgan's England go into this World Cup as the No.1 ranked ODI team having refurbished its overall approach to the white-ball game. 

"England are playing at home. Of late they are an improved side, having quality cricketers in almost all the positions. They are balanced," Gambhir stressed. "With Jofra Archer, England will be a force to reckon with. They are blessed with four genuine all-rounders, of which mentions should be made of Ben Stokes and Moeen Ali."

The 2011 World Cup winner, Gambhir also laid down the qualities which shall see a nation reign supreme at the quadrennial event that begins on May 30 and culminates with the final on July 14. 

"First of all, self-belief. Everyone in the team should have the confidence that they can win the Cup. Then, to perform consistently. Planning and implementation is also very important. And on top of it, the team should have a happy dressing room."

"Everyone should know about the minute details of the problems and their solutions. If any team can tick all of these boxes, they have a better chance of winning the World Cup," he concluded. 

 
 

By Kashish Chadha - 19 May, 2019

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