XtraTime Web Desk: Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar, without any hesitation terms Team India as the clear favourites for ICC World Cup 2019 while praising the Men in Blue’s ability to be competitive “in any part of the world and on any surface”. Sachin’s words came just a few moments after India’s thrilling 35-run win over New Zealand in Wellington in the fifth and final ODI series. India won the five-match contest 4-1. Sachin also named India’s toughest competitor for the showpiece event.
After emerging as an invincible force across formats on home turf, India set sail to conquer overseas track in 2018. Under the captaincy of Virat Kohli, India won three bilateral ODI series last year defeating South Africa (5-1), Australia (2-1) and New Zealand (4-1), while their only defeat came in England (2-1). Also, since the last World Cup, India have recorded 54 wins in the format hence recording a win percentage of 67.09 – the most by any team. Standing behind them are the No.1 ranked team England – 51 wins with a win percentage of 66.23. And under Kohli, India have win 33 out of 46 ODIs since January 2017.
“I have gone on record saying that we have a perfect balance in the team where we will be competitive in any part of the world or on any surface,” Tendulkar told PTI in an interview on Sunday. “As far as our chances are concerned, I will not hesitate in saying that we are the favourites.”
Tendulkar then named England as the toughest competitor in the World Cup. Besides being the hosts, England have clearly outperformed most sides in the ODI format with their depth in the batting lineup and strong and formidable bowlers.
“It’s all about getting the early momentum. My judgement on the toughest contenders would be England, while New Zealand would be the dark horse,” he opined. “I know New Zealand have struggled in this series but it’s a good unit, one needs to be on their toes.”
The Master Blaster also reckoned that Australia will be back to their dangerous form with the return of Steve Smith and David Warner from their suspension.
“I think Australia at full strength will be a formidable side. With Smith and David Warner back in the team and their other bowlers coming back into the ODI squad, it will be a competitive side,” said Tendulkar.