England favorites, not India for World Cup: Gavaskar

Former India cricketer Sunil Gavaskar believes that India are not the favorites for the 2019 World Cup and he infact feels the hosts England are the favorites for lifting the coveted ICC trophy.

England strong favorites for World Cup: Gavaskar

While speaking with a news channel, the former India batsman said that the strong favourites in the World Cup tournament are England.

Gavaskar made it clear that it is not just because it will be a home World Cup for them, but because he feels they have changed their attitude towards ODI cricket.

He explained that since 2015, the manner in which they changed their game, the way in which they picked their team – England have grown into a strong side.

He noted that England have a good opening pair, they have strong middle-order batters, they also have a good all-rounder, and when you play at home, you also have a strong backing.

Experience of playing in England advantage for India: Gavaskar

Speaking about India’s chances, the legendary batsman said that one advantage India have is that they have played in England for two consecutive years.

So he feels the players who will be part of the World Cup squad will be aware of the conditions, and hence will be able to use their experience. Probably, India can use the factor to lift the World Cup.

But at the same time he made it clear that he feels the favourites are England, and then India.

Gavaskar predicts the four semi-finalists

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The former India cricketer stated that Pakistan have always been a formidable side and he believes that the Australian team will look strong with the return of Steve Smith and David Warner.

According to Gavaskar, these four teams will be in the semi-finals and he feels New Zealand could also spring a surprise because conditions in England are similar to theirs.