The Press Box

[World Cricket Conference]

Niue and Qatar all set to kick-off the Cricket World Cup in Alofi
Both host nations will be seen in action in back-to-back matches during the first round of the World Cup​

The Cricket World Cup during the captains' media day ahead of the World Cup opener © Associated Press, November 9, 2003​

ROUND 1 PREVIEW​

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Match 1, Niue vs Qatar, Alofi

World Cup co-hosts Niue will lock horns with Qatar in the tournament opener at the Capital Cricket Park in Alofi. A venue famous for being batting-friendly will certainly bring a lot of eyeballs to Basheer Rashed, the lynchpin of the Qatari side. Arguably the most vital cog for the side, Basheer Rashed is asked to step up every single occasion, no matter the venue, conditions, oppositions or any other ifs, buts and whats. But perhaps, his biggest test will be at the biggest stage of them all, against an in-form hometeam raring to go. Many even believe that Niue are a secret favorite to win it all, even though they have been grouped in the group of literal death.

However, Niue more or less shot themselves in the foot by denying visas to a handful of teams for some bogus reasons, three of which happened to be grouped with them. With this decision, Niue forwent their home advantage which could have proven to be vital in this group. Their only match on home soil will be this encounter against Qatar, and with zero knockout matches scheduled for Niue, it is likely that if Niue are to win the whole thing, they'll have to do so without much, or any aid at all.

Players to watch out for: Basheer Rashed, Ali Khamis Faraj, Talatitama Holo, Dalton Nemani

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Match 2, New Zealand vs Norway, Dunedin

University Oval will play hosts to New Zealand's first World Cup match, as they take on a well-settled Norwegian side in the first match of Group B. New Zealand have struggled in international cricket across formats for the better part of two years, so to see them pick up pace right before the World Cup was certainly a pleasant sight for any fans of this sport, except if you're from Norway. Surprisingly, New Zealand left out Trace Roberts, one of their best performers in One-Day Internationals in recent years, and instead have opted for a more freshlook squad for the World Cup. Norway on the other hand, have struggled to be consistent more than anything else. In their last ODI series, they secured a 3-2 victory following an intense series-decider against newcomers Russia. Getting off the mark with a win against New Zealand can really set the tone for the rest of their campaign, especially considering the road they have ahead of them.

Players to watch out for: Erik Eriksen, Sebastian Mathisen, Magnus Larsen, Michel Gottlieb

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Match 3, India vs Wales, Toi

One of, if not the favorites to win the World Cup - India - will start their campaign against Wales in Toi. Wales, having qualified for the World Cup as the second-lowest ranked ODI side in the world, have a tough hill to climb, one which begins with them facing the mighty Indians in their first World Cup match. Their star batters, Dai Carlson and Tom Donald will have to step up big time if they are to pose a challenge to this Indian outfit. Given how their bowling fell flat against Qatar in the warm-up match, much will be required of them too. In this star-studded Indian side, any player can deliver a match-winning knock or a match-winning spell on their day, but if they are to go all the way, all facets must gel together to form an indomitable side, which they are well capable of.

Players to watch out for: Dai Carlson, Tom Donald, Vijay Kambli, Mayas Kumble, Pramod Krishnakumar

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Match 4, Pakistan vs United States, Alofi

The fourth match of the first round will see the United States take on a Pakistani side that's been punching way above their weight class, for a very long time now. As always, Pakistan will rely heavily on their captain to get some runs and the Durrani Brothers to support him wholeheartedly. Kabir Khan Durrani, one of ODI cricket's most prolific wicket-takers, is tasked with leading this bowling attack. He has much to live up to, and a lot to bare for Pakistan to get an early win and kickoff their tournament. Pakistan are definitely the more in-form team headed into this match, whereas the United States, having re-joined the Conference earlier this year, are certainly capable of causing a major upset. Even if they have fewer star players than Pakistan, their victories against World Cup hosts New Zealand in both the Test and ODI series earlier this definitely paint their side as the "giant-killing" type. Whether they'll be able to pull off such performances at the World Cup remains to be seen.

Players to watch out for: Talha Hayat, Shabbir Khan Durrani, Kabir Khan Durrani, Lamar Dean

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[World Cricket Conference]

Basheer Rashed cements his legacy at the grandest stage of them all
The Prince of Lusail was once again the point of difference between victory and defeat for Qatar​

World Cup hosts New Zealand began their campaign with a dominant win in Dunedin © Associated Press, November 11, 2003​

ROUNDUP OF ROUND 1

With the first round of matches now in the history books, we bring you a brief recap of what went down at the Cricket World Cup in its first four matches.​

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Match 1, Niue vs Qatar, Alofi

Basheer Rashed paved the way for a monumental upset with an innings of immeasurable context. His knock of 165 against one of the best bowling attacks in the world cemented his legacy as one of the greatest batsmen of all time. Adding more than half of his team's 306, he almost single-handedly gave Qatar the upper hand. No other batsman in Qatar's lineup could even cross fifty, with Humaid Sultan's run-a-ball 41 being the next highest score.

For Niue, it was an off day at the most inconvenient of times. Playing their only home game of the World Cup, Niue's bowling delivered for the most part. However, Basheer Rashed seemed to be their kryptonite, as none of the seven bowlers who rolled their arms over in the match could get him out until he had done what he does.

With a good-enough total on the board, Qatar still had to bowl well to get the win against Niue. Favourable conditions and a batting lineup of Niue's calibre demanded a special bowling performance from Qatar, and they delivered just that with the leader of their pack being a no-show. Ali Khamis Faraj, rather surprisingly, went wicketless, but a complete performance overall helped Qatar defend the total and secure a hefty 56-run win. Muhsin Al-Tayani was the highlight with the ball for Qatar, picking up 3 wickets for 37 runs in 7 overs. Mahmoud Nader also chipped in with a couple of scalps, although he was a little on the expensive side as well.

Qatar bowled Niue out to win rather handsomely in the end, all thanks to Basheer Rashed's unparalleled brilliance lighting the way for the Qataris to open their account.

Result: Qatar won by 56 runs

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Match 2, New Zealand vs Norway, Dunedin

New Zealand continued their rise from the doldrums of stagnation with a dominant win over the Norwegians. Played at the University Oval in Dunedin, the second match of the World Cup, and the first to be played in New Zealand, saw the hosts emerge triumphant against a struggling Norwegian side by 76 runs. Fritz Collins starred with an impeccable hundred up top, which coupled with Max Haley's fifty and Akshay Ojha's quickfire cameo towards the end of the innings pushed New Zealand past the 300-run mark, giving Norway an identical target to Niue in the first game.

Norway started their run-chase really strongly, with Oskar Nøstbakken in particular soaking in a lot of pressure against a moving new ball. Unfortunately for the Scandinavians however, their middle-order was run through quickly once their top-order's insistence of putting up a fight was brought to a screeching halt. Martin Franecki shined with the ball, claiming the first-ever 5-wicket haul in World Cup history. Even while a little expensive, his 5-fer led the way to a massive win for the Kiwis.

Result: New Zealand won by 76 runs

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Match 3, India vs Wales, Toi

India collided with Wales in Toi in the third match of the first round, and it went exactly the way many would've expected it to go. India, having lost the toss, batted first and posted 285/5 on an evenly-balanced surface. Wales did exceptionally well to keep India's explosive batting tied down to a modest total, with half-centuries from Vijay Kambli and Surajkumar Yadav being the highlight of India's innings. Liam Beef and Andrew Bull were extremely economical during key phases of the innings.

Wales' chase was off to a terrible start with Pramod Krishnakumar striking in the second over to remove Charlie Nicholls. Rhodri Davies and Kiran Lloyd did well to recover, but the former was dismissed in the sixth over. Lloyd followed soon after, leaving Wales reeling at 35/3. Tom Donald and Dai Carlson, the backbone of Welsh batting, put up a sensational 105-run partnership to bring Wales back into the contest, but a killing blow from Pramod Krishnakumar dismissed the Welsh captain, opening the floodgates for Wales to lose their last 6 wickets for 20 runs. Of those six wickets, five fell to Mayas Kumble who finished the game with figures of 5/16.

An all-round clinic gave India 3 invaluable points alongside a healthy net-run-rate boost, whereas the Welsh were thoroughly outplayed in the Group C opener.

Result: India won by 121 runs

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Match 4, Pakistan vs United States, Alofi

Pakistan defeated the United States after winning the toss and posting the highest total of the first round, which saw many batting-oriented play in conditions conducive to batting. They posted their 343/8 on the back of a haywire 134 off 92 deliveries from Saim Rizvi, who hit 17 fours and 5 sixes in his brazen knock. A strong finish from Adam Youhana gave Pakistan an extra few runs, which the Americans were unable to constrain, even with an in-form Wade Anderson bowling in the death.

The Americans were overwhelmed by Pakistan's attack as every attempt of building their run-chase was met with an untimely dismissal, until eventually the States were bowled out in the antepenultimate over of the innings, with a 113 runs between them and Pakistan. Sheraz Hashmi was the pick of the bowlers with 3 scalps for 33 runs.

Result: Pakistan won by 113 runs

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[World Cricket Conference]

China meet England in potential Group B summit clash at Hagley Oval
Two of the three teams likely to win the group collide in Christchurch on Saturday​

Hagley Oval during the warm-up match between Bermuda and Denmark © Associated Press, November 6, 2003​

ROUND 2 PREVIEW​

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Match 5, Guernsey vs Vanuatu, Hamilton

Two extremely well-settled squads who have had mixed fortunes in ODI cricket take each other on in the first match of the second round as Guernsey face Vanuatu in Hamilton. While the ODI records of the reigning Euro Cup co-winners have been a mixed bag, the team consists of some of ODI cricket's greatest ever cricketers. Harry Wroetoshaw and Tom Nightingale, two of the most prolific run-getters in ODI cricket, form the backbone of this Guernsey side, with the up-and-coming starboys Kylian Michiels, Richard Morgan and Henry White only adding to their strength. For them to go deep in the tournament, their bowlers need to step up big time. Harrison Willis, as ever, holds the keys to Guernsey's fortunes with the ball, being their greatest bowler ever. However, a great deal is also expected of Ryan Edwards and supposed wonderkid Xavier Thomas. Guernsey have the tools, but do they have the mechanic who knows how to use them?

Vanuatu have had a middling year thus far, with their highest high coming against Nations League runners-up England, who they beat 2-0 in a Test series away from home in April. And their lowest low coming against China, who they lost to in all three formats, including T20Is where they were dethroned as the No. 1 Team in the world. Vanuatu need to seriously punch above their weight if they are to make it out of a group consisting of Guernsey, Denmark, Niue and Qatar. And they can very well do so if all pieces fall into place, starting with their openers regaining lost form, their middle-order being a little less reliant on Apolinaire Saksak (despite him being so consistent), and their bowling gelling together to form a disciplined attack with Mark Mansale as its spearhead.

Players to watch out for: Tom Nightingale, Harry Wroetoshaw, Kylian Michiels, Harrison Willis, Mark Mansale

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Match 6, China vs England, Christchurch

Arguably the biggest match of the group pits China against England in Christchurch, as two of the three teams most-likely to win the group collide in a much-anticipated contest. China have been the fastest rising nation in the world of cricket, having won Club World Cup and Asia Cup honours within their first three years as members of the World Cricket Conference. England on the other hand, have been slightly less fortunate with their trophy cabinet, but have tried to burst through a higher ceiling, with an appearance in the Nations League Final being the highlight of their journey thus far.

This match is expected to be high-octane, as some of the best cricketers in the world will be seen live and in living colour, representing England and China. William George Charles, one of cricket's biggest egos and its biggest stars, returned to don national colours very recently following controversies with his home board. Having left the national side to play for his adopted home in Wales (a club co-owned by him), WG Charles saw his decision prove fruitful, as he led the Aberystwyth Avengers to Club World Cup glory in Denmark only a few months back. However, since being brought back into the side with a lot of controversy surrounding him, he has failed to truly deliver the way he had done before his alleged falling out with some members of the English side. Many even believe that captain Richard Head had usurped him as England's be-all and end-all during Charles' absence, having inarguably been their best player this year.

For the Chinese, Shi Gen has been nothing short of magic. He has enviable numbers, well on track to overtake Rudi Struwig as ODI cricket's greatest ever bowler. In a mere 28 matches, Shi Gen has claimed 76 wickets at an astonishing bowling average of 17.50. While the wrist-spinner boasts four 5-wicket hauls in ODI cricket, his most outrageous performance came not in ODIs, but in List As during the Club World Cup, where he bagged 8 wickets for 31 runs in Roskilde only a couple of months ago. Simply too good for the opposition, Shi Gen has a big role to play in China's biggest ODI match yet. Quite possibly more so than Du Wei and Zhu Yusheng, their highest run-getters in ODI cricket. All in all, this contest is sure to be a feast for cricket fans of both these nations, and the neutral ones as well.

Players to watch out for: William George Charles, Richard Head, Shi Gen, Du Wei

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Match 7, Bermuda vs Saudi Arabia, Hikutavake

All eyes on Wendell Corden-Cox to conjure up the very greatness which led Aberystwyth Avengers to Club World Cup glory, as Bermuda take on a batting-oriented Saudi Arabia on a Hikutavake flat-track. The Arab Cup champions take on the runners-up of the Americas Championship, as two teams generally seen on the lower end of the pecking order lock horns in a crucial Group C match. With an undoubtedly tough road ahead for both these teams, a win in this match could set the tone for either of these sides to go very deep in the tournament, maybe more so than what is expected from either of these sides.

Saudi Arabia, a team that has relied almost exclusively on their batting, will have to come up with something inspired to negate the damage that Wendell Corden-Cox can inflict on them. With Hikutavake's typical batting friendly conditions in play, expect this match to be high-scoring, and most likely one-sided contest.

Players to watch out for: Wendell Corden-Cox, Khuzaimah Rasheed, Mohsin Tunio

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Match 8, Israel vs South Africa, Napier

African juggernauts and favorites to win the World Cup, South Africa, begin their campaign against Israel in Napier. With their settled core of players looking as good as it ever has, South Africa are the likeliest contenders to win this group almost unchallenged. But if there are any chinks in the armour, expect Asher Golan's Israel to find and exploit them, even with all the odds stacked against them the way they are in this contest. It'll be tough, but if the Arab Cup is anything to go by, Israel can do it.

Asher Golan, highest run-scorer at the Arab Cup has to burden the majority of responsibility, both as captain and player. Luckily for him, he seems to have found a dependable partner in Amah Eliot, with both men having been involved in crucial partnerships together, who will no doubt challenge Proteas' world class bowling.

A bowling attack led by Rudi Struwig, one of two players to have 100 ODI wickets, and the first to get there. Rudi Struwig is the heartbeat of this South African side. His heroics with the ball led them to their Knockout Trophy win in 2002, and now leading a much-improved Proteas side, he appears destined to win the World Cup.

Players to watch out for: Petrus Struwig, Jacques Coetzee, Dale Smit, Rudi Struwig, Asher Golan

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[World Cricket Conference]

England defeat China in final-over thriller in Christchurch
England vs. China lived up to its billing as one of the biggest matches of the group stage​

Harrison Willis (far right) during Guernsey's pregame team portrait against Vanuatu © Associated Press, November 14, 2003​

ROUNDUP OF ROUND 2

A thrilling encounter between China and England headlined the second round of matches at the Cricket World Cup.​

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Match 5, Guernsey vs Vanuatu, Hamilton

Early showers in Hamilton resulted in a delayed start with overs lost in this Group A showdown. Tom Nightingale, having won the toss, invited Vanuatu to face the music in conditions heavenly for bowlers. Eprahim Meto and Dgen Kalsakau let Vanuatu off to a flyer early in the innings, before Xavier Thomas struck in the fifth over to send the former back to the pavilion. The kind of start Vanuatu had would become their entire innings' trend, with several start-and-stop knocks giving them a glimmer of hope of posting an imposing total, before an abrupt breakthrough would eventually bring them down. Harrison Willis was the chief architect of Vanuatu's demise, with his 4-wicket haul starring in Guernsey's bowling card.

With a target of 161 set for Guernsey to chase in 42.0 overs, Tom Nightingale decided to take Vanuatu's attack head on. His unshackled batting allowed Guernsey to race away to the target despite the Vanuatuans finding constant breakthroughs at the other end. In the end, his approach was the biggest point of difference between the two sides, as Guernsey secured a nervy 5-wicket win with Brian Bennett and Finlay Wilson just about keeping their cool to see Guernsey home.

Result: Guernsey won by 5 wickets (with 71 deliveries remaining)

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Match 6, China vs England, Christchurch

China faced off against England in a highly-anticipated Group B match in Christchurch, a match which did not let viewers down. After winning the toss and asking China to bat first, England struck in only the third over to see the back of Su Yaoting with Jim Malick trapping him dead in front of the stumps. Bai Chun and Du Wei quickly recovered however, adding 69 runs for the second-wicket in no time. As Du Wei neared his fifty, Alex Vixen struck to remove his partner and broke their stand before it really took off. Following Chun's dismissal, Wei completed his fifty and departed soon after. With both set batsmen now gone, Zhu Yusheng and Ye De went into a shell, giving the Englishmen an opportunity to dry up runs during the middle overs. And they did just that before the pressure eventually got to the captain, triggering him to try an audacious slog-sweep which he completely botched, and Alex Vixen trapped him in front for an lbw dismissal.

His dismissal may have been a positive sign for China had Ye De not continued his struggle, because the newcomer Mao Shuren took the Englishmen on like they were nothing. Toying with their best bowlers, Shuren added runs quickly before Ye De decided it was time for an ill-timed pull, resulting in an amateurish dismissal for the Chinese keeper. Ye De's dismissal opened the floodgates for Zachary Wilson to run through China's lower-order while Mao Shuren watched on from the other end. Shuren had his timbers disturbed trying to go big against Wilson in the 47th-over, where Wilson would pick one more wicket to complete his 5-fer. Shao Zhenkang and He Weimin managed to squeeze 15 runs off the final 12 deliveries, pushing China's total into above-average territory.

With a not-so-daunting target of 249 set, all England had to do was find a way of subduing Shi Gen, and all was gucci for Richard Head's men. Peter Mills and Mark Crowe, England's openers, took this one step further and frustrated China's bowlers to no end with an uber-conservative approach. No loose shots were offered and no unnecessary risk was taken by these two men, until eventually, Shi Gen found a chink in their armour and sent Crowe back in the 27th-over of thee innings. With half of the runs scored, and the ball now old enough where it stopped moving on its own whims, all England had to do was put their foot to the pedal, and they did so without any worries with William George Charles squeezing the part-timer Bai Chun for 20 runs in the 41st-over to release all pressure.

However, China struck back to remove Mills and Charles in back-to-back overs with the required rate increasing in the background. Fortunately for England, Ronald Wellington and Richard Head were in good form, and managed to score 32 runs in 18 deliveries off of some very loose bowling from Hou Xiaotong and Bai Chun. A four on the second delivery of the final over sealed the deal for England, who emerged victorious against China, one of the three contenders to win their group.

Result: England won by 5 wickets (with 4 deliveries remaining)

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Match 7, Bermuda vs Saudi Arabia, Hikutavake

A highlight reel-worthy in-swinger from Khuzaimah Rasheed disturbed Wendell Corden-Cox's timbers on the second delivery of the match, as Saudi Arabia half-secured 3 points against Bermuda within the first two deliveries of the game. Corden-Cox met the same fate in Bermuda's first World Cup match as he did in their warm-up, a duck when it mattered the most. Jamison Howard was trapped for a simplistic lbw dismissal three balls later, leaving Bermuda reeling at 3/2 at the end of the first over.

Dayton Dowling added invaluable runs to give respectability to Bermuda's score, but even then, they found themselves reduced to 140/5 by the end of the 31st-over. It wasn't until Harrington Mark and Preston Tuckett's phenomenal counterattack that Bermuda had a total they could bowl with. Mark and Tuckett added 138 runs by themselves, pushing Bermuda's total to 278/5 at the end of their innings, a decent-enough total without any contributions coming from the Main Man himself.

But the tone of this match was set from the get-go for Saudi Arabia, as Khuzaimah Rasheed, their star performer with the ball, stepped up once again and scored an invaluable fifty while putting together a 119-run stand for the fourth-wicket alongside Adam Khattak. There simply wasn't anything there for either Wendell Corden-Cox or Brenton Barrow to create magic, as Saudi Arabia completed an emphatic win on the back of Adam and Khuzaimah's innings.

Result: Saudi Arabia won by 4 wickets (with 21 deliveries remaining)

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Match 8, Israel vs South Africa, Napier

Israel took on South Africa in the second match on double-clash Sunday as both teams collided under grey skies in Napier. Israel opted to bat first, and met the ferocity of the Struwig Brothers immediately. Asher Golan tried to settle things down for Israel after two early blows alongside newcomer Niv Nagavkar, and while the pair added 68 runs in no time with counterattacking cricket, the ideal goal would've been for either men to go big and score a hundred, which neither managed to do. Niv Nagavkar was sent packing by an incredible throw from Pierre Struwig from long-on, while Asher Golan fell victim to a one-handed Siya Ndlala stunner.

Elias Benjamin, Noam Aviv and Dan Eleazer added crucial runs at the backend as they are often known to do, but even with their best efforts, Israel could only manage a subpar 240/8 at the end of their fifty overs. Israel still could've challenged South Africa if they bowled out of their boots, and Ethel Gabriel and Dan Eleazar showed glimpses of just that when they sent both openers back for chump change, essentially, but the quality of this South African side was too much for the Israelis to bare, as Petrus Struwig and Siya Ndlala ran away with the game with an indomitable 190-run stand. Struwig completed his hundred and remained unbeaten on 108*, whereas Ndlala was unfortunate to be dismissed two short of a well-deserved ton. South Africa however, had the game already won by that point.

Result: South Africa won by 7 wickets (with 67 deliveries remaining)

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[World Cricket Conference]

Group B top-two headline a blockbuster third round
New Zealand face off against England with both teams having won the first two matches of the group​

William George Charles (left) and Richard Head (right) conversing during China's innings in Christchurch © AP, November 15, 2003​

ROUND 3 PREVIEW​

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Match 9, Denmark vs Vanuatu, Napier

Denmark begin their World Cup against a Vanuatuan side desperate to keep theirs alive. Having lost to Guernsey by a hefty-enough margin, Vanuatu could very well be on the brink of elimination if they lose against the Danes in only their second match of the tournament. Group A, fittingly known as the group of death, leaves very little margin for error between five teams on equal footing vying for the two spots available to them. Vanuatu, having been undone by Harrison Willis and Tom Nightingale, are in a must-win position against one of the best limited-overs teams in the world in Denmark.

Simon Bule bowled his heart out against Guernsey, and managed to actually make something happen with the ball alongside Mark Mansale, but their hopes were eventually dashed by Brian Bennett and Finlay Wilson's watchful knocks guiding Guernsey over the line. A lot on relies on those two to get things right if Vanuatu are to take on a batting lineup of Denmark's calibre, one which comprises of the likes of Aksel Johansson, Chris Mattsson, William Gunnarsson and Jørn Storgaard.

For Denmark, their batting isn't their only strong suit - Martin Lundgren, despite being in the worst form of his life, is still among ODI cricket's highest wicket-takers, and he's their third-best bowler. Felix Nørregaard and Chris Fredriksson are two of the best bowlers in the world, and with Oliver Johansson having had a wonderful 12 months, the Danes look like one of the most complete units in this tournament. With more riding on this game than contextualizable, expect an instant classic.

Players to watch out for: Simon Bule, Mark Mansale, Aksel Johansson, Chris Mattsson, Felix Nørregaard, Chris Fredriksson

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Match 10, New Zealand vs England, Auckland

The top-two teams of Group B collide at the Eden Park as Auckland braces itself for some World Cup action. New Zealand face off against England with both teams having won the first two matches of the group, vying to consolidate their rank at the top of the group with an important win. However, reports have emerged that New Zealand have been dealt a massive blow as Martin Franecki, the star of New Zealand's defense against Norway, is likely to miss out due to a slight niggle in his shoulder.

With one of New Zealand's top performers, and the spearhead of their bowling attack out of the game, England clearly have an upper hand heading into this contest. An advantage which only strengthens an English side currently on top of their game, as evident by their brilliantly executed plans leading them to a concise win against China in Christchurch. New Zealand and England are set to collide in one of the biggest matches of the group stage, with the winner moving to the top of the group.

Players to watch out for: Fritz Collins, Michel Gottlieb, Clinton Hintz, Peter Mills, William George Charles, Zachary Wilson

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Match 11, Canada vs India, Tamakautoga

Canada take on India with the popular belief being whoever wins this match is going on to win Group C. It's always a bad idea to be this sure about anything in cricket, but the way these two teams have dominated on the internationals stage is something to behold. Canada, the No. 1 Test and ODI side in the world, the only team to hold these two ranks simultaneously and the reigning Nations League winners, will face India, one of THE favorites to win the World Cup purely on potential. India have not had the kind of luck Canada have had, particularly in international tournaments, but it would be gross to understate the sheer quality of this Indian side by comparing their medals to Canada's. To be played in bowling-friendly conditions, batters will need to stand up for each side to make their bowlers' life easy.

Vijay Kambli and Varun Muzumdar, the spine of India's middle-order will have a massive role to play in this contest. Similarly, much will be expected of Martin Terry, Canada's Superman, during Canada's middle overs. Bowlers on both sides will have a field day unless the batters step up big time, as Canada play India in Tamakautoga.

Players to watch out for: Vijay Kambli, Varun Muzumdar, Martin Terry

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Match 12, Pakistan vs Morocco, Tamakautoga

Morocco and Pakistan will close out the third round as Tamakautoga hosts back-to-back World Cup games. Pakistan, having trounced the United States in one of their most-dominant ODI wins, will miss out on the services of Rana Hassan Jutt who has been ruled out after complaining discomfort in his knee. He is yet to be sent for a scan, but the belief is that it is nothing serious and he should be good to go against the Israelis at the earliest. However, in this match he will be resting.

Morocco have improved significantly on the international stage in recent years, with their Casablanca Cup win being the highlight of their cricketing thus far. They have, also, choked in major matches against major opposition, with the Arab Cup Final being the most glaring example. Having dominated the tournament throughout and remaining unbeaten, Morocco lost the final against a Saudi Arabian side missing Khuzaimah Rasheed due to a clash with the Club World Cup. It's difficult to predict a team that has found a way to brand itself as mercurial, despite having one of the best domestic infrastructures in the world, but in this match they enter as favorites.

Players to watch out for: Saim Rizvi, Kabir Khan Durrani, Talha Hayat, El Mahi Khatibi, Pierre-Marie Rapace, Abdelkarim Toulali

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[World Cricket Conference]

Durrani and Hashmi conjure up magic to overpower Morocco
The spin-and-pace duo shared 9 wickets between themselves to help Pakistan defend 184 with ease​

India's match against Canada saw a terrific turnout from Indian fans © Associated Press, November 19, 2003​

ROUNDUP OF ROUND 3

Back-to-back wins for New Zealand, India and Pakistan help reaffirm their spots at the top of their respective groups after round three.​

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Match 9, Denmark vs Vanuatu, Napier

Denmark opened their World Cup campaign with a tense win against a deflated Vanuatuan side. Having opted to bat first, Denmark were on par in typical Napier conditions. Mark Mansale struck in the 1st over to remove Chris Mattsson, then came back again in the 11th over to turn the game on its head once more by removing both, Aksel Johansson and Jørn Storgaard. Niels Hjort and William Gunnarsson put up a commendable fight to rescue Denmark from a predicament and stabilized their innings. Niels Hjort, an over after completing fifty, was run out by a gun throw from Dgen Kalsakau. However, Vanuatu were unable to capitalize on this blow as Paul Boesen soaked in all pressure with a high-quality knock. Another breakthrough, brought on by Jarryd Vira bowling an absolute pearler to William Gunnarsson came Vanuatu's way, but it too was quasheed by quality counterattacking cricket from Oliver Johansson.

Oliver Johansson remained unbeaten on 45* as Denmark finished their innings with an on-par total of 251. Even with the quality they possessed in their bowling attack, they needed to bowl extremely well to defend this total against a Vanuatuan side gunning for a necessary win. Unfortunately for the Oceanic island, Oliver Johansson turned up with the ball just as well as he did with the back, as his figures of 3 for 51, albeit more on the expensive side of things than not, starred in a 36-run win for Denmark. Luuk Kalotang's knock put Vanuatu on track to take Denmark's 251 down, but his untimely dismissal allowed Denmark to make a winning comeback.

Result: Denmark won by 36 runs

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Match 10, New Zealand vs England, Auckland

Richard Head's England faced off against a New Zealand side running on something of a hot streak, in yet another final-over thriller following England's encounter against China. However this time around, England ended up on the losing side despite a herculean knock from the captain Richard Head himself. His innings of 151 not out propelled England to 314/4 after the Poms had their top-three blown away for chump change, essentially. Head, alongside William George Charles, added 206 runs for the fourth-wicket to rescue England from 46/3. Charles was quite unfortunate to be run out on 91, just nine short of a well-deserved hundred, but Head went big with a quickfire cameo from Ronald Wellington adding the final touches. Emile Leannon and Waiapi Eketone had incredible economy rates on a wicket tailor-made for batsmen, mostly due to their opening spell with the new ball under slightly grey skies and wind blowing from the northern end.

New Zealand, in their response, scaled England's 314 with their middle-order rising to the occasion against an English attack falling flat under pressure. Kiwi skipper Michel Gottlieb's 82 was the top score in New Zealand's card, but fifties from Joe Barbaro and Nasir West were just as valuable as Gottlieb's top-drawer knock. Rembrant Marcelino on the other hand, had a much larger impact with his fast-paced 73 not out, comprising of 6 fours and 4 sixes, seeing New Zealand across the line. Richard Head and Richard Carolyne took two wickets apiece, but without support from the rest of the attack, failed to defend 314 in a final-over thriller in Auckland.

Result: New Zealand won by 5 wickets (with 3 deliveries remaining)

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Match 11, Canada vs India, Tamakautoga

Vikas Samant stood tall as India's man of the moment as they beat the World No. 1s despite Martin Terry's 3-wicket burst cornering them into a potential loss. Tamakautoga saw a massive turn out by the Indian fans, making it seem like the match was being played in Kolkata, or Mumbai, or Chennai. That atmosphere definitely added to the game and to India's hopes, as everytime they would go on the back foot, they would have almost the entire stadium cheering them on. The most glaring example of that was when Martin Terry had India by the ropes with a 3-wicket burst reducing them to 74/5, before out walked Vikas Samant, and with each block, each single, each double, each four the crowd cheered the Indians on and played their role as India's twelfth man.

It wouldn't be unfair to say that it was this extra bit of motivation that Vikas Samant and Vijay Kambli needed to build their 79-run stand and revive India from the doldrums of being all but gone, and the ensuing 72-run partnership which saw Samant and Subrata Chatterjee see India home to a massive win despite them being 74/5 at one point in their chase. Vikas Samant, unbeaten on 71 from 108 balls, put on his career's best performance at the World Cup to help India defeat the World No. 1s.

Result: India won by 4 wickets (with 25 deliveries remaining)

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Match 12, Pakistan vs Morocco, Tamakautoga

Kabir Khan Durrani and Sheraz Hashmi conjured up absolute magic to help Pakistan defend 184 with relative ease, as the spin-and-pace duo of Pakistan shared 9 wickets between themselves. Having set a target of 185, Pakistan were in all sorts of trouble against a Moroccan side that is generally good at chasing, however a stunning display of bowling from Pakistan's spearhead saw Morocco lose both, Zouhair Rami and Hervé Hocquard, their best batters by a country mile in the very first over of the run-chase. Kabir's first over set the tone for Pakistan to eventually go on and defend 184 with ease against a Moroccan side gasping for air at times. Kabir dismissed 5 of the first 6 wickets to fall in Morocco's innings, with Sheraz Hashmi cleaning up the lower-order and tail to bowl Morocco out for a measly 117, giving Pakistan a 67-run win despite their batters failing to turn up to the occasion themselves. Youssouf Berrada, unbeaten on 24, was left to rue "what could've been".

Result: Pakistan won by 67 runs

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[World Cricket Conference]

Guernsey and Qatar headline Round 4; Russia play their first match at last
World Cup schedule was brought under scrutiny with Russia being the only team left to play until round four​

Waqar Sharif (pictured during Saudi Arabia's match against Bermuda) suffered a blow to the head during practice © Associated Press, November 16, 2003​

ROUND 4 PREVIEW​

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Match 13, Saudi Arabia vs Wales, Tamakautoga

The Village in Tamakautoga prepares to host its third and final match of the World Cup as Saudi Arabia, fresh off their win against Bermuda, take on Wales in the first match of the fourth round. During Saudi Arabia's practice session at the adjacent ground yesterday, Waqar Sharif was hit on the head by a Khuzaimah Rasheed beamer, and as a result has displaced his nose. He has been ruled out of Saudi Arabia's match against the Welsh, and will likely be re-assessed before Saudi Arabia's match against Canada on the 30th of November. Waqar Sharif has been a lynchpin of the Saudi middle-order, averaging 84.83 in 15 innings in ODI cricket. His absence definitely hampers the Saudi middle-order, who'll have to rely even more on Mohsin Tunio and Khuzaimah Rasheed to produce the goods.

Wales on the other hand, will be licking their lips seeing Saudi Arabia's woes, as their bowling attack hopes to draw inspiration from the Pakistanis, who pulled off a heist-like win against the Moroccans yesterday on this very ground. Wales need a win to bring their World Cup back to life, and conventional wisdom suggests that they have the upper hand going into this match as a side who simply "wants it more". Their bowling attack being a cut above the Saudis also helps matters.

Players to watch out for: Mohsin Tunio, Khuzaimah Rasheed, Liam Beef, Johnny Harris, Andrew Bull

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Match 14, South Africa vs United States, Auckland

South Africa take on a deflated United States side in Auckland, as the Proteas look to strengthen their knockouts chances with another massive win. Going into this match as the hot favorites, South Africa are inarguably the team to watch out for in Group D. United States, having suffered a massive loss to Pakistan, are on the back foot massively, and another loss here could end their World Cup dreams before they even truly begin. A lot will be riding on America's star performers, Lamar Dean and Roy Hogan, to get get their World Cup back on track against a South African side, which will no doubt come full pelt towards them in bid of a massive win.

Players to watch out for: Lamar Dean, Roy Hogan, Rudi Struwig, Petrus Struwig, Jacques Coetzee

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Match 15, Guernsey vs Qatar, Auckland

In the first of match of Sunday's double-header, a top-of-the-group clash between Guernsey and Qatar looks to set the stage on fire in Auckland. An inspired Qatari side, following their fairytale win against World Cup hosts Niue, will no doubt be spirited of delivering another massive shock to the world of cricket with a win over Guernsey. Basheer Rashed, aptly dubbed the Prince of Lusail, met his peak at the grandest stage of them all and inspired Qatar to an inconceivable win in their first match. With the weight of an entire nation weighing him down, can he relive his glory once again and see one foot of the Qataris into World Cup knockouts? Well, that remains to be seen as Guernsey, World Cup favorites in their own rights, will do everything within their might to see that doesn't happen.

A staunch win in the first match has set the tone for Guernsey very well, but with the competition amping up and the pressure beginning to mount, can they rise up to the occasion as only they can? If their dynasty in Test cricket is anything to go by, even among the favorites to win, they are a peck above the others. With a gallery of big-match performers comprising of Harrison Willis, Harry Wroetoshaw, Tom Nightingale and Kylian Michiels, Guernsey may just have the edge over Basheer Rashed XI.

Players to watch out for: Basheer Rashed, Harrison Willis, Harry Wroetoshaw, Tom Nightingale, Kylian Michiels

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Match 16, China vs Russia, Makefu

Two superpowers of the world collide, but thankfully for us, they do so on a cricket field as Russia finally play their first World Cup match against a Chinese side that was dealt a heavy blow in their first match against England. Vital for both these teams, the result of this match could have heavy implications on the rest of the group, and tournament as a whole. A loss, however unlikely, can put China on the brink of elimination. With the pressure at its highest, and the stage at its grandest, Shi Gen and Du Wei need to step up big time and revive China's World Cup campaign in this do-or-die match against Russia.

Russia will be keen on beginning their World Cup with a bang, with a wounded Chinese side served up on a platter for the likes of Roman Romanova, Yusif Pavlov and Sergei Andreevich to devour. A massive contest in the context of the tournament, as the Chinese take on the Russians in the second game of the Sunday double-header.

Players to watch out for: Shi Gen, Du Wei, Roman Romanova, Yusif Pavlov, Sergei Andreevich

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[World Cricket Conference]

Guernsey overcome Qatar to stay put at number one in Group A
Newcomer Xavier Thomas' fiery spell reignited memories of the great Patrick Duncan​

Young blood Xavier Thomas was a key figure in Guernsey's crucial win over Qatar in Auckland © Associated Press, November 23, 2003​

ROUNDUP OF ROUND 4

Xavier Thomas' 4-wicket haul headlined a massive win for Guernsey as Qatar failed to make it two-out-of-two against the islanders.​

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Match 13, Saudi Arabia vs Wales, Tamakautoga

The extremely scenic orange skies of Tamakautoga saw a third-straight World Cup match being played with the iconic backdrop, as Saudi Arabia took on Wales in a crucial game for both sides. Wales, having been asked to bat first, were off to a very poor start with Momin Hassan, Ammad al Khalid and Khuzaimah Rasheed making early inroads to reduce them to 41/4. A fiery fightback from Dai Carlson and Harri Hurle subdued the Saudi attack, and resuscitated Wales' innings with a crucial 98-run partnership. With Wales' scoreline now reading a lot more respectable 139/4 now, Abdullah Dawood got the better of Harri Hurle and brought a much-needed breakthrough for the Saudis. A couple overs later, Dai Carlson also walked back after holing out to Ammad al Khalid. And just like that, their 98-run partnership started looking like it was going in vain before another counter-attacking stand from Liam Beef and Inzamam Wasim dragged Wales' score into sub-par territory.

Despite a couple of late wickets, Wales finished with a very respectable 229/9 in typical Tamakautoga conditions. A total that would prove just enough with Liam Beef, this time with the ball, producing the goods to lead a 62-run defense, giving Wales their first win of the tournament. He was the standout performer in the Welsh card with figures of 3/45. Mark Jones and Andrew Bull also bagged a couple of scalps each, while Johnny Harris and Inzamam Wasim claimed one wicket apiece. A clinical bowling display overall, coupled with a Saudi lineup simply failing to put up a prolonged fight resulted in Wales triumphing over Saudi Arabia in this Group C match.

Result: Wales won by 62 runs

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Match 14, South Africa vs United States, Auckland

South Africa continued their dominance with an 81-run trouncing of the United States in Auckland. Mark Janssen, South Africa's 'keeper maestro, headlined their innings with a maiden ODI hundred after they found themselves in a spot of bother with the Americans getting the better of their top-order. With Johnny Summers left out due to an injury, the American attack was hampered from the get-go, but they still managed to pack a mean punch against one of the world's best batting lineups. Unluckily for them, Mark Janssen came fully prepared to foil their plans and blazed away to a hundred in no time. His knock catapulted South Africa to 298/7, with Themba Xolo's supporting act doing due diligence from the other end. Billy Steele was the pick of the bowlers for USA with 2 wickets to his name.

In response to South Africa's 299-run target, the United States put up a commendable showing with the bat upfront, with Lamar Dean being the driving force behind America's approach towards this target. Despite playing pulling up with an all-timer of a knock, the lack of support from the other end meant Lamar Dean's heroics were going to go down the drain, as they did with Rudi Struwig, the South African captain, delivering the killing blow by uprooting his middle-stump in the 46th-over while he was batting on 99. His knock coming to screeching halt also brought America's innings to a close, as South Africa secured a massive 81-run win.

Result: South Africa won by 81 runs

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Match 15, Guernsey vs Qatar, Auckland

In the first match of this week's double-header and the second match of this round in Auckland, Guernsey overcame the Qatar challenge and managed to stay put at the top of Group A, at least for now. After winning the toss and inviting Qatar to bat first, Tom Nightingale and his bowlers, particularly Xavier Thomas, pulled their weight and delivered a phenomenal performance to keep the Qataris restricted to a chaseable score. Playing only his second One-Day International, Xavier Thomas delivered a wonderful spell, quite reminiscent of the great Patrick Duncan, to pick up 4 wickets for 43 runs in his 10.0 overs. Basheer Rashed, the most-prized wicket in perhaps the entire tournament was among his four victims who fell prey to his fast, furious and unrelenting barrage of short balls. Despite Al-Amin Ahmed and Ghulam Mohamed's top-draw counter-knocks, Qatar could only manage a subpar total in batting-friendly Eden Park following the cheap dismissal of Basheer Rashed.

Guernsey's approach towards the target was surely a case-study into what the future of cricket could hold, as they never really took their foot off the pedal despite losing wickets constantly, and no particular batsmen managing to go big despite getting great starts. Muhsin Al-Tayani once again turned up with the ball, but without support from Ali Khamis Faraj, the best he could manage were consolatory scalps after the damage had already been done by Guernsey's batsmen. Henry White was a particular standout for Guernsey with a run-a-ball 70 before his dismissal, while both Kylian Michiels and Richard Morgan were out on unlucky 49s. Guernsey, with 5 wickets and 54 deliveries to spare, secured 3 invaluable points in the group of literal death, overcoming the Qatar challenge with flying colors.

Result: Guernsey won by 5 wickets (with 54 deliveries remaining)

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Match 16, China vs Russia, Makefu

Russia began their World Cup at last against a freshly wounded Chinese side following their heart-wrenching lost to England in Christchurch. China won the toss and posted 289/5 with Bai Chun's swashbuckling 102 off 99 deliveries headlining the card. A classy fifty from captain Zhu Yusheng and decent supporting knocks from Du Wei and Ye De allowed China to post an imposing total on a pitch with equal amounts happening for both the bat and the ball. Sergei Andreevich struck twice to remove Bai Chun and Zhu Yusheng, but he was a little too much on the expensive side of things for Russia.

Being given 290 to chase under lights, Yusif Pavlov and Viktor Popov pulled through with high-quality knocks under pressure, but the rest of the Russian side completely caving in meant the Chinese would secure a rather comfortable 55-run win in the end, with Shao Zhenkang and Shi Gen sharing 6 wickets between themselves.

Result: China won by 55 runs

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[World Cricket Conference]

Pakistan eye early knockouts qualification in Christchurch
A win against Israel would all but confirm Pakistan's knockouts berth​

Pakistan captain Talha Hayat during the post-match press conference in Tamakautoga © Associated Press, November 20, 2003​

ROUND 5 PREVIEW​

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Match 17, Denmark vs Niue, Wellington

The newly-renovated Basin Reserve hosts its first World Cup match as Niue, out of their own country, face Denmark in a must-win match for both sides. Niue, having been beaten by Qatar in the World Cup opener, are desperate for a win to bring their World Cup back from the dead. Having to travel to New Zealand due to Niue immigrations' visa ban, the Niueans are foregoing home turf advantage, which could have proven to be the ultimate point of difference in this group of literal death.

Denmark on the other hand, will be hoping to continue their form with a second consecutive win before facing Qatar and Guernsey in Christchurch. Much was expected from their esteemed batting lineup, but they failed to deliver against Vanuatu despite emerging victorious in the end. In conditions favourable to bowling, their batsmen's presence will be a key determining factor of the outcome of this match.

Players to watch out for: Faleuka Tagelagi, Talaititama Holo, Duken Talaiti, Martin Lundgren, Felix Nørregaard, Chris Fredriksson

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Match 18, China vs Norway, Hakupu

Fresh off their win against the Russians, China take on Norway who sit on the edge of elimination should things go awry in this match. China's win against Russia brushed off the stink of their loss against England, but with their final match coming against New Zealand in the last round of the group stage, a win here is important for them to stay ahead of any net-run-rate shenanigans that may occur in the four rounds where they have byes.

Norway are in somewhat of a similar situation, but winning for them means keeping their World Cup alive. A hefty defeat at the hands of World Cup hosts New Zealand have sunk the Norwegians to the bottom of the group, and another loss here could very well spell the end of their dream in only their second World Cup match.

Players to watch out for: Shi Gen, Du Wei, Erik Eriksen, Sebastian Mathisen, Magnus Larsen

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Match 19, Bermuda vs Wales, Alofi

Bermuda face off against a charged Welsh side having just beaten the Saudi Arabians in their previous match. For Bermuda, the Main Man has a lot to live up to. He has scored two ducks in two matches, including the World Cup warm-up, and as a result has seriously under-delivered at the grandest stage of them all. For Bermuda to pose a legitimate challenge to a bowling-heavy Welsh side, he must step up and score big in this game to bring them a much-needed win.

Wales will once again rely on their bowlers to pull through, even though their middle-order has so far delivered in big games and under immense pressure. Their bowling, really, holds the key if they are to go deep in this World Cup, and we witnessed glimpses of that with Liam Beef's performance against Saudi Arabia. It is important that they subdue Wendell Corden-Cox, because if he gets going, no matter how hard they try, the Welsh middle-order could be in all sorts of trouble.

Players to watch out for: Wendell Corden-Cox, Liam Beef, Tom Donald, Dai Carlson

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Match 20, Israel vs Pakistan, Christchurch

Pakistan eye a virtual knockouts qualification with a win over Israel in Christchurch. Pakistan's bowlers have given them two wins in two matches, including a massive triumph over the Moroccans in their previous game. Sheraz Hashmi currently sits as the joint-highest wicket-taker of the World Cup, and will no doubt have a massive role to play in this important match. Their batting on the other hand, hasn't really lived up aside from Saim Rizvi's 134 in the first game against the United States, with the Pakistan captain Talha Hayat, very noticeably, having a very quiet World Cup so far.

Israel's defeat at the hands of South Africa puts them at the second-last position in the group, but with three more games left for them to play, they have the opportunity to do a full 180 on their World Cup campaign. But for that to happen, Asher Golan needs to regain his Arab Cup form, and he needs his bowlers to deliver against these top-notch batting sides. With Pakistan's batsmen having struggled, the Israeli bowlers have the perfect chance to regain control and form in this match.

Players to watch out for: Sheraz Hashmi, Talha Hayat, Kabir Khan Durrani, Asher Golan, Ezra Azarel, Noam Aviv

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[World Cricket Conference]

Rafi, Durrani script third straight win for Pakistan
Pakistan's quarter-final hopes can only be dashed by 'miracle' Morocco run​

Wendell Corden-Cox scored a career-best 179 to blow Wales out of the water © Associated Press, November 26, 2003​

ROUNDUP OF ROUND 5

Niue, China, Bermuda and Pakistan secured wins in the fifth round of the ongoing Cricket World Cup.​

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Match 17, Niue vs Denmark, Wellington

Niue got their World Cup going with an intense win over Denmark in a rain-affected game in Wellington. After being asked to bat first by Denmark, Niue posted an intimidating 196 all out considering the fact that seven overs had been shaved off each innings due to early showers. Dalton Nemani's 48 off 39 deliveries was the top score in the Niuean card, with his livewire knock bringing life to Niue's innings. Martin Lundgren and Chris Fredriksson were the pick of the bowlers for Denmark, finishing on figures of 4/48 and 3/33 respectively. Despite being amongst the wickets, Denmark's bowlers bled runs allowing Niue to get to an imposing total.

Denmark's chase was off to a flyer, with Chris Mattsson and Niels Hjort adding 62 runs for the opening-wicket in no time. Niue however, pulled things back sensationally with Aika Enoka and Faleuka Tagelagi producing all the goods with the ball and claiming 4-wicket hauls, each. Constant flurry of wickets coupled with a shambolic lower-order display from the Danes left them a painful 29 runs short of Niue's 196, as the World Cup hosts found a way to win to get their World Cup going at last.

Result: Niue won by 29 runs

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Match 18, China vs Norway, Hakupu

China secured a second consecutive win, this time over Norway as Zhu Yusheng led from the front with a match-winning hundred. China made two changes coming into this game, with the injured Bai Chan replaced by Song Meng, and Lei Yu coming in place of the under-performing He Weimin. Only one of these changes turned out to be fruitful for China, as Lei Yu, alongside Tang Deming, bowled exceptional spells to help China contain Norway to a modest-at-best 233/9. Several batsmen in Norway's lineup found starts, but none of them found a way to convert them into something of greater significance.

Presented with a rather simplistic run-chase, China, led by their captain Zhu Yusheng's 101, secured a 4-wicket win with 56 deliveries to spare. A couple of solid 30s from Su Yaoting and Mao Shuren definitely aided China's cause, but in the end it was all Zhu Yusheng who got China across the line to a second consecutive win.

Result: China won by 4 wickets (with 56 deliveries remaining)

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Match 19, Bermuda vs Wales, Alofi

In a match where winning could've secured a potential knockouts qualification for Wales, the prime version of Wendell Corden-Cox turned up to spoil their dreams with an extraordinary innings of 179 runs from 137 deliveries, catapulting Bermuda over a 328-run target single-handedly. Dayton Dowling played a perfect supporting role, but Wendell Corden-Cox's legacy-defining knock was the sole reason of Bermuda's triumph. Welsh bowling fell flat in admittedly batting-friendly conditions, but in a situation where it was imperative for them to turn up, they no-showed, leaving Wales with a monumental loss in a game their batters had them won.

Result: Bermuda won by 7 wickets (with 10 deliveries remaining)

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Match 20, Israel vs Pakistan, Christchurch

Kabir Khan Durrani continued his golden World Cup run with another stellar bowling performance, setting-up a 7-wicket trouncing for Pakistan to go three in three in Group D. After choosing to bat first, Israel were rocked hard early with Kabir Khan Durrani's 3-wicket new ball burst reducing them to 30/4, before a spirited fightback from skipper Asher Golan and Elias Benjamin stabilized Israel's innings a little. Rana Hassan Jutt, coming back from an injury, brought the big breakthrough by dismissing Golan, but Benjamin continued his resistance alongside Noam Aviv, who added 44 runs from 64 deliveries himself. Benjamin finished the innings as Israel's top-scorer, adding an invaluable 74 runs from 122 deliveries from the number six position to rescue Israel and get them to a bowlable total of 219/8.

Despite having crawled their way to a defendable total, Israel's bowling failed to even challenge Pakistan, who raced away to a 7-wicket win with 66 balls to spare. Mohammad Rafi top-scored for Pakistan with a run-a-ball 62, while their captain Talha Hayat finally found some form as well, adding 55* to see Pakistan home.

Result: Pakistan won by 7 wickets (with 66 deliveries remaining)

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[World Cricket Conference]

Vanuatu go toe-to-toe with Qatar in virtual knockout
A loss against Qatar will spell the end of Vanuatu's World Cup campaign​

Rachid Al-Fassi cooling himself off during the drinks break in Morocco's match against Pakistan © Associated Press, November 20, 2003​

ROUND 6 PREVIEW​

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Match 21, Qatar vs Vanuatu, Dunedin

Vanuatu face off against Qatar in a must-win match in Dunedin. Coming off losses in each of their last games, both teams will be desperate for a win here, but perhaps Vanuatu more so, as a loss here will eliminate them from the World Cup. With the match played in a high-scoring ground, batting will likely dictate the outcome of this contest, which gives Qatar a massive edge with Basheer Rashed, their lynchpin and star performer looking to utilize these favourable conditions against a bowling attack that has not yet fired the way many would've expected them to. Aside from Mark Mansale, no Vanuatuan bowler has looked threatening all tournament, with Simon Bule being the most obvious disappointment in the attack. Simon Bule has picked up 1 wicket and currently sits on a bowling average of 100.00.

While Qatar have had similar woes, at least Muhsin Al-Tayani and Mahmoud Nader have gelled together to form a formidable duo instead of the team relying on any one sole performer to produce the goods all by himself. Basheer Rashed will undoubtedly have a massive role to play in the outcome of this game, whether if it's by helping Qatar trounce a dejected Vanuatuan side, or by giving said Vanuatuan side hope of causing an upset by underperforming in a game of such magnitude.

Players to watch out for: Basheer Rashed, Muhsin Al-Tayani, Mahmoud Nader, Mark Mansale

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Match 22, England vs Russia, Wellington

England take on Russia in hopes of leapfrogging China and joining New Zealand in the top-two of Group B with a win in this match. England are heavy favorites heading into this match, but the Russians are well-capable of causing a massive upset, which could throw this entire group into disarray. Russia, having beaten Norway and Saudi Arabia in ODIs before the World Cup, as well as Israel in the warm-up match, are a balanced and disciplined side which gels together to form a formidable unit, even if they seem a little short on raw starpower. England on the other hand, are full of world cricket's top players, and are a formidable team as a whole too. Russia enter this match as the obvious underdogs, but if their performances in the lead up to the World Cup are anything to go by, their bite is as ferocious as their bark.

Players to watch out for: Richard Head, William George Charles, Zachary Wilson, Yusif Pavlov, Roman Romanova, Sergei Andreevich

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Match 23, Canada vs Saudi Arabia, Liku

Canada and Saudi Arabia face off against each other in the biggest match of the round in the context of the tournament, as a win here for Saudi Arabia will all but guarantee them a knockouts spot as a tropical thunderstorm, predicted to hit Niue in early-December, washes out the last four matches of the group.

Canada are in a very tough position despite having played and lost just one game in the tournament so far. They need to win against Saudi Arabia, and they need to do it with a big-enough margin to wrestle the second spot away from Bermuda before rain arrives and washes away the last four matches of Group C.

Players to watch out for: Martin Terry, Khuzaimah Rasheed

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Match 24, Morocco vs United States, Hakupu

Morocco started their World Cup with a diabolical capitulation against Pakistan in Tamakautoga, which has put them in a position that requires them to go on an unbeaten run in their last three games. This ask will also require them to beat their long-term AFCON rivals South Africa, all the while needing a favour from them to beat Pakistan, causing a three-way tie for the top-two positions. In which case, net-run-rate will come into play and both teams aside from Morocco sit at the top rather comfortably. So for Morocco to stand any chances of making this unlikely scenario come to life, they must begin their 'miracle' run against a dejected United States side, which has so far lost to both Pakistan and South Africa in completely one-sided bouts. A loss here will end Morocco's World Cup, whereas a big win is imperative.

Players to watch out for: El Mahi Khatibi, Hervé Hocquard, Abdelkarim Toulali, Lamar Dean

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[World Cricket Conference]

Dominant wins for Morocco, Vanuatu light up the race to knockouts
Group A and Group D remain wide open, despite the United States being the first team out​

Richard Head (semi-naked) receives a massage before the England-Russia game © Associated Press, November 29, 2003​

ROUNDUP OF ROUND 6

Dominant and completely one-sided wins for Morocco and Vanuatu light up the latter half of the group stage, throwing groups A and D wide open.​

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Match 21, Qatar vs Vanuatu, Dunedin

Qatar and Vanuatu squared off against each other in a contest of immense magnitude, with elimination imminent for the Vanuatuans should they lose. But as they say, pressure brings out the best in you, and so it did in Vanuatu, who scored the biggest win by margin of runs to buff up their net-run-rate, making it the second-best in the group behind only group-toppers Guernsey. A stonewall 113 from Apolinaire Saksak, aided immensely by Dgen Kalsakau's 89 helped Vanuatu to the second-highest team total of the tournament so far. Vanuatu finished their innings on 340/6, setting the stage for their bowlers to deliver exactly the kind of win they were desperate for.

And they definitely delivered, as Selwyn Welwel led the pack with a 5-wicket haul to script a 130-run routing of the Qataris, bringing Vanuatu's World Cup back from the dead with a completely one-sided victory. Despite Welwel's 5-fer lighting up the bowling card, it was arguably Jarryd Vira who had the biggest moment in the game when he broke through Basheer Rashed's defense and made him walk back for a mere 2 runs. Saksak, Kalsakau and Welwel came together to script a sensational victory for Vanuatu, which has thrown the Group A wide open once again heading into the final four rounds, whereas Qatar find themselves in a world of trouble after this loss.

Result: Vanuatu won by 130 runs

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Match 22, England vs Russia, Wellington

Richard Head led from the front and registered career-best bowling figures of 6/25, picking up his maiden ODI 5-wicket haul to give England a thumping 46-run win in a shortened game against the Russians. With rain reducing each innings to 28.0-overs-a-side, England were asked to bat first under grey skies, blowing winds and a damp wicket. Ilya Darkov started things off pretty well for Russia by making Peter Mills edge one straight to Ramzan Dudko, but unluckily for the Russians, their wicket keeper would grass that straightforward chance, giving a pretty good indication of how the game was going to play out from this moment onwards.

And even though Mark Crowe was run out the next over, England grasped onto the game firmly and never let go. Fast-paced fifties from Peter Mills and William George Charles, and an unabashed 33 from Peter Matherson helped England to 160/3 at the end of their 28.0 overs. A formidable total for any team to post under such conditions, but one which was going to prove particularly difficult for Russia's inexperienced side going up against some of the best bowlers in the world.

Richard Head proved as such by picking-up career-best bowling figures of 6/25, leading the English to a 46-run win over the Russians in a win which saw them leapfrog China to second-place in the group. Head's figures were also the best of the tournament, and they also catapulted him to number three in the wicket-taking charts.

With England securing a crucial win before their final game, Richard Head, the English captain, sits comfortably as an early contender for the Player of the Tournament award, being in both the top-five highest run-scorer and wicket-taker charts. Head has had an all-timer thus far, and is easily the most important English player.

Result: England won by 46 runs

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Match 23, Canada vs Saudi Arabia, Liku

A completely one-sided win from Canada propelled them to second-place in Group C, and with a tropical thunderstorm forecasted for the last four matches of the group, winners and runners-up from Group C may already be set in stone. It was crucial for Saudi Arabia to win this match, as a win here would've likely secured a quarter-finals berth for them alongside India, but a total capitulation against admittedly the number one side in the world has resulted in the Saudis squandering a golden opportunity. Canada's pace-bowling trio led the charge with 7 wickets among themselves, as the Saudis were bowled out for a subpar 213 on an out-and-out batting wicket. Mohsin Tunio and Adam Khattak put up a commendable stand, and both batters achieved fifties but their efforts were somewhat conceited given the lack of support from others. Amish Bakshi was the pick of the bowlers for Canada with 3 scalps to his name, even though he was a little on the expensive side of things.

Canada, in their pursuit of Saudi Arabia's 213, were hardly fazed with commanding fifties from Graham White, Balendra Lathar and Martin Terry getting the job done with 6 wickets and 75 deliveries to spare. No bowler in the Saudi attack looked threatening enough to turn the tide of this game, as Canada managed to farm a massive net-run-rate boost, shooting themselves to top-two in the group, behind only India, in a crucial win which may have already determined the fate of this group.

Result: Canada won by 6 wickets (with 75 deliveries remaining)

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Match 24, Morocco vs United States, Hakupu

Morocco's 158-run trouncing of the United States knocked the Americans out of the World Cup, and wrestled away the biggest win by margin of runs record from Vanuatu, from earlier this round. With Morocco in a position where another loss knocks them out of the World Cup, a win, and a win by a massive margin was imperative for the Atlas Lions in this game. And their star performers turned up to deliver just that for them, with Hervé Hocquard's 135 not out firing Morocco to 336/2. A total their bowlers would defend easily, with Abdelkarim Toulali and El Mahi Khatibi sharing 7 wickets between themselves. Even Lamar Dean, who has undoubtedly been the best player of this American side, couldn't provide any respectability to the United States' 158-run loss at the hands of Morocco, and their exit from the World Cup.

Result: Morocco won by 158 runs

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[World Cricket Conference]

India versus Bermuda headed towards a washout in Vaiea
Should rain play spoilsport, Bermuda's knockouts chances will diminish greatly​

A tropical thunderstorm is expected to hit Niue in early parts of December © Associated Press, November 30, 2003​

ROUND 7 PREVIEW​

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Match 25, Guernsey vs Niue, Dunedin

In arguably the most significant game of the round, Guernsey face off against Niue with plenty riding on the outcome of this match. A loss here for Niue will put them on the fastrack to elimination, which is certainly the result Denmark, Qatar and Vanuatu will be hoping for, for their own qualification chances. Guernsey on the other hand, will secure their quarter-finals berth with a win, essentially making the remainder of group A's matches a dogfight between the other four teams.

Guernsey's bowlers have been exceptional for a change, while their batters have well and truly lived up to their calibre with commanding performances in both their games. Guernsey have looked like the most complete team in this tournament so far, and will definitely be entering this match as the heavy favorites,

Niue on the other hand, shook off defeat from the World Cup opener with an intense win in their last match against Denmark in a rain-affected game in Wellington. Aika Enoka and Faleuka Tagelagi have bowled wonderfully for them, even in the game they lost, but their batting has left a lot to be desired by. With a potential elimination on the horizon for Niue, they need to fire on all cylinders and deliver kind of an upset win against group-toppers Guernsey in this crucial match.

Players to watch out for: Kylian Michiels, Tom Nightingale, Harry Wroetoshaw, Aika Enoka, Faleuka Tagelagi, Jayson Okesene

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Match 26, England vs Norway, Hamilton

With Richard Head leading a routing of the Russians in England's previous game, a win here could really solidify their quarter-final hopes barring a massive win for China against a New Zealand. Norway have so far disappointed in this World Cup, with not one player in their side having a tournament to remember. At least in the 'winless' United States' case, Lamar Dean has had a wonderful tournament individually, whereas every Norwegian player has looked completely out of their depths so far.

But perhaps, an opportunity presents itself with Norway going up against an English side that relies too heavily on William George Charles, and recently, Richard Head. In conditions that suit Norway's bowlers more than England, getting these two men cheaply could be their golden ticket to a very unlikely upset.

Players to watch out for: Richard Head, William George Charles, Kasper Andersen, Sebastian Mathisen, Magnus Larsen

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Match 27, Bermuda vs India, Vaiea

Bermuda take on group-toppers India with rain predicted to play spoilsport. If the match does get washed out as it is predicted to do, Bermuda's chances of qualifying for the knockout stage will take a massive hit, while India, so far unbeaten, will hardly be fazed. India are the only side aside from Guernsey that have gelled together and formed an indomitable unit that has not had to rely on individual brilliance as much, which is the polar opposite of Bermuda, who are more or less a one-man team.

And while that one man is the Main Man, Wendell Corden-Cox, it is expected that in bowler-friendly conditions, Mayas Kumble and Co. will have every tool at their disposal to subdue him. Wendell Corden-Cox needs to deliver his best performance yet, even topping his 179 versus Wales, if Bermuda are to beat India.

Players to watch out for: Wendell Corden-Cox, Mayas Kumble, Pramod Krishnakumar, Zeeshan Khan, Milkha Singh

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Match 28, Pakistan vs South Africa, Hamilton

Pakistan take on South Africa in an attempt to win Group D and qualify out of the group as winners, which will force the match between South Africa and Morocco to become a virtual knockout. However, despite Pakistan's admirable World Cup run, South Africa enter this game as the heavy-favorites, as many believe that Pakistan are yet to face a real challenge and they will do so in the face of the Proteas. Victory for Pakistan will iron out the qualifications scenario of this group significantly, while a win here for South Africa will ease out knockouts chances for the Proteas themselves, and at the expense of their long-term AFCON rivals Morocco no less.

Players to watch out for: Kabir Khan Durrani, Saim Rizvi, Sheraz Hashmi, Petrus Struwig, Dale Smit, Pierre Struwig

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[World Cricket Conference]

India and Pakistan become the first two teams to book their knockouts spot
Norway become the second team to bow out of the World Cup following United States' elimination in round six​

Riaz Rawani (right) delivered career-best figures of 5/27 to star in Pakistan's upset win © Associated Press, December 4, 2003​

ROUNDUP OF ROUND 7

India and Pakistan became the first two teams to officially confirm their quarter-final berths following a washout in Vaiea, and a major upset in Hamilton.​

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Match 25, Guernsey vs Niue, Dunedin

Niue scaled Guernsey's mammoth 358/6 in the most crucial win of their campaign so far. Being given a behemoth target to chase, many would've believed that Niue were all but gone, but a sensational fight shown by Niue's batters helped them achieve the impossible. Guernsey batted first after winning the toss, and posted 358/6 on the back of typical batting from the likes of Kylian Michiels, Henry White, Harry Wroetoshaw and Finlay Wilson. Tom Nightingale being dismissed for a 3-ball duck may have been the only blemish in Guernsey's batting card, which was topped by Henry White's 92 and Harry Wroetoshaw's 88. Talaititama Holo had his best game yet, claiming 3 wickets albeit being a little on the expensive side of things, which is sure to be expected against Guernsey on a ground like Dunedin.

Niue in their response, very inspired and took the challenge head on to scale Guernsey's 358 with 5 wickets and 39 deliveries to spare. Dalton Nemani's 92 mimicked Henry White's from the first innings, and Misikea Feleti matched Harry Wroetoshaw's 88 with an 87 of his own. Aided by a quickfire fifty from Haitrosene Vemoa, these knocks were more than sufficient to see Niue home in a rather comfortable win. Ryan Edwards had an outing to forget, conceding 103 runs in his 10.0 overs.

Guernsey, despite posting the biggest total of the World Cup so far, ended up on the losing side for the first time all tournament. Quite a deflating defeat, even for a side of Guernsey's calibre, and a win which could no doubt inspire the Niueans to go the full distance in this World Cup. Sensational stuff from the co-hosts.

Result: Niue won by 5 wickets (with 39 deliveries remaining)

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Match 26, England vs Norway, Hamilton

A second World Cup 5-wicket haul from Zachary Wilson inspired England to their third win of the group stage, as Norway bowed out of the tournament with their third straight loss. With rain washing away 30.0 overs from the game, a shortened contest was likely going to benefit Norway, but that was until Zachary Wilson turned up with his best figures in the World Cup and bagged a second 5-wicket haul, Kabir Khan Durrani as the tournament's leading wicket-taker in the process.

Being asked to bat first, Norway crawled their way to 130/9 with Wilson's 5-fer breaking their back during the middle-overs. A show of resistance from Odin Solberg at number eight made sure Norway wouldn't be all out, but perhaps him being too conservative in his approach left a good 20-25 runs on the table towards the end.

England chased this modest target with ease, as a level-headed 46 from Peter Mills and a wham-bam-thank-you-ma'am fifty from William George Charles got them across with 8 wickets and 25 balls to spare. With this win, England moved to number one in Group B with their fate now lying in the hands of China and New Zealand.

Result: England won by 8 wickets (with 25 deliveries remaining)

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Match 27, Bermuda vs India, Vaiea

India versus Bermuda being abandoned due to rain ensured quarter-finals qualification for India, making them the first team to qualify out of Group C. Whether they qualify as group winners or runners-up remains to be seen, as three more matches are left to be played in the group. Bermuda on the other hand, maybe thanking high heavens for getting away from this game with points. Having a game played may have been detrimental to Bermuda's quarter-final chances given the gulf in quality between the two sides, whereas now, their route to the knockouts is fairly simple - beat Canada and qualify as the second team alongside India.

Result: Match abandoned without a ball bowled

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Match 28, Pakistan vs South Africa, Hamilton

Pakistan capped off their stellar run in the group stage of the World Cup with a sensational win over hot-favorites South Africa, escaping Group D as unbeaten winners. Pakistan invited South Africa to bat first after winning the toss, a decision which would be quite fruitful as the Proteas would get blown over for a paltry 158 within their shortened 42-over innings. Riaz Rawani claimed a 5-wicket haul, his first in ODI cricket and one which came at the perfect time for Pakistan. His career-best figures, coupled with supporting roles from Sheraz Hashmi and Umair Tahir, blew South Africa away for a subpar total, even by standards of this treacherous pitch.

Pakistan were dealt an early blow but they recovered well and quickly, but Morne Kleynhans struck to remove Pakistan's captain and star batter Talha Hayat soon after. With Pakistan's scoreline reading 29/2, South Africa had an opportunity to make a comeback in this game, but the unflinching nerves of Shabbir Khan Durrani and his ensuing composure ensured this match didn't go down the long line of squandered opportunities for Pakistan cricket. His unbeaten 47 from 73 deliveries saw Pakistan home with 5 wickets and 67 deliveries to spare, winning not only this game, but Group D as well. This win ensures Pakistan will play in the fourth quarter-final at this very ground, as well as ensuring that the upcoming match between South Africa and Morocco becomes an instant knockout for both teams.

Result: Pakistan won by 5 wickets (with 67 deliveries remaining)

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[World Cricket Conference]

Qatar face off against Denmark in 'must-win' match in Christchurch
A loss in this game will officially knock Qatar out of the knockouts race​

Basheer Rashed during a post-match press conference © Associated Press, November 28, 2003​

ROUND 8 PREVIEW​

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Match 29, Canada vs Wales, Hakupu

With the tropical thunderstorm predicted to hit Niue now finally here, this game is as good as washed out. But in the most unlikely of scenarios, should the game be somehow played, a loss here for Canada will officially knock them out of the tournament. It is unlikely that even the coin toss occurs, so for each team to get away with a point each from this game will mean that Canada will rise up back to second-place in the group, just ahead of Bermuda, and Wales will officially be knocked out of the knockouts race. For Wales to stand a chance of qualification, it is imperative that this game is played and that they emerge victorious from that game.

If the game is played, Canada losing will automatically spell the end of their World Cup, whereas a win will only add hype to their match against Bermuda in Liku.

Players to watch out for: Martin Terry, Amish Bakshi, Badr Baig, Tom Donald, Dai Carlson, Liam Beef

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Match 30, Israel vs Morocco, Dunedin

In another must-win match, Morocco must overcome the Israeli challenge to keep their virtual knockout against South Africa true. A loss here will bring Israel back into the qualifications scenario, essentially resurrecting their World Cup from the dead. Now, given how one-sided their two defeats have been so far, it is still unlikely that they will be able to truly challenge either Morocco or South Africa for that second spot from Group D, but Morocco must still keep their route as straightforward as possible, and make sure they defeat Israel to keep their virtual knockout against South Africa plain and simple.

Players to watch out for: Hervé Hocquard, Zouhair Rami, Youssouf Berrada, Asher Golan, Amah Eliot, Noam Aviv

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Match 31, Denmark vs Qatar, Christchurch

Christchurch hosts yet another high-profile game as Qatar take on Denmark with elimination imminent should they fall short. Basheer Rashed played a legacy-defining knock against Niue in the World Cup opener, but unfortunately for Qatar, that one match has so far been the only highlight of their tournament. Their lowest lowlight on the other hand, was suffering a 130-run defeat at the hands of an out-of-form Vanuatuan side, bring them back into the qualifications race with that one match.

Denmark have played only two games so far. In their first match, they defeated Vanuatu by 36 runs, and in their second match, they lost to Niue by an equally narrow 29 runs. A win here may be just as imperative for Denmark as it is for Qatar, but at least a loss here won't knock them out of the World Cup. It will take their fate away from their own hands and place it on the outcomes of the remainder of this group's matches, but at least they will still have the chance to qualify for the quarter-finals.

Players to watch out for: Aksel Johansson, Chris Mattsson, Martin Lundgren, Chris Fredriksson, Basheer Rashed, Muhsin Al-Tayani

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Match 32, New Zealand vs Russia, Napier

New Zealand play Russia in Napier in a game which can really solidify their knockouts chances. Having played and won two out of two games, New Zealand are still only really one loss away from mucking up their standing. Their match against China in the final round will be of the utmost importance, but for them to ensure that game doesn't lose that importance, they need to make sure they win this game, and ideally, they do so quite handsomely to strengthen their chances.

Russia definitely do not enter this game as the favorites, but being so new to the international arena, being present at the World Cup may be a badge of honor in itself. An upset win here may give them infamy, but it would be unwise, maybe even foolish to expect them to best one of the top nations in the world of cricket.

Players to watch out for: Michel Gottlieb, Emile Leannon, Martin Franecki, Clinton Hintz, Yusif Pavlov, Sergei Andreevich

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