Well I am in two minds really, If Bangladesh are to go through to the next round that would mean knocking out Pakistan OR Australia, and I really hope its the latter
IPL's gone. But, T20 hasn't. Time for some T20 action yet again as World's top teams compete to be crowned as the World T20 Champions in the ICC World Twenty20 coming the 30th of April. Starting just 5 days after the conclusion of IPL Season - 3, this T20 World Cup is all set to be better than ever. Some new talent along with the old boys who don't seem to believe in age are all ready to entertain one and all. 'Bring It', say the West Indians as they host the 3rd edition of ICC World Twenty20.
However, the defending champs Pakistan may say 'Hold On! Why 'Bring It' so quickly? The reasons are obvious as they might well end up with shortest tenure ever as title holders if they fail to retain their Champions tag. The ICC are to blame for this as their future tours programme is a bit too much. Other teams though won't be complaining as they get a chance to have a go at the title once again in a span of 10 months.
New Zealand and Sri Lanka square off in the opening encounter to be played at Guyana. This tournament gives West Indies Cricket Board a chance to correct their past blunders in organizing global events. One remembers how the ODI World Cup in 2007 panned out in the Caribbean. Awful organization coupled with some of the contenders leaving early didn't help the competition either. The mickey-mouse format of Cricket has done good to the Windies by reinstating the faith in the game and the World Cup surely can do a world of good. West Indian skipper Chris Gayle is one of the T20 enthusiasts himself as he believes in this format more than any other. All these factors make this upcoming T20 bonanza one of the most awaited sporting events.
Twelve participants are divided equally into 4 groups. Group A consists of defending Champions Pakistan, very talented Bangladesh and four time ODI Champs Australia. Group B has the dark horses of almost every ICC event New Zealand, a sporty Zimbabwe and the runners-up from last time Sri Lanka. Group C sees a certain 'chokers' South Africa, inaugural ICC World Twenty20 winners India and newbies Afghanistan.The final group, Group D has the hosts West Indies, never the favorites for any ICC event England along with hot and cold Ireland.
T20 is an unpredictable format and any team can turn it on on their given day. Going by the squads on paper, India, South Africa and Sri Lanka look very strong. Australia's poor run in T20 might come to a still this time round. Pakistan are unlikely to retain their title but it is surprising that they are the most consistent team when it comes to the shortest format of the game. They reached the finals of the first two editions of ICC World Twenty20 and won the tournament in England.
West Indies, England and New Zealand pretty much sail in the same boat. If they play to their potential, the can well prove to be a head-ache for the other nations. Bangladesh has the talent but they are yet to show the world consistently what they are capable of. Other minnow nations may not get a chance from anyone but they have a golden opportunity to announce themselves at the world stage and what better than a World Cup to do it.
Wow! Lovely writing you have added each and every team there in the update and have shown your view on the favorites to win the tournament as well. Bangladesh can create upsets in my opinion.
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