The other day I happened to meet some of the top observers of cricket at a informal drink and dine evening . Among other topics , the T20 world cup was also discussed . The observers who were present on the occasion to express their views included a former batsman Tejoe , cricket observer and a key think tank to the Indian cricket strategies Venkatesh Kumar and S Saini from COTN .
The ICC World Twenty20 kicks off in 6 days with amazingly lop-sided looking groups. Considering this mega event and the different it has made to the world cricket order and to the careers of some of the cricketers like Dhoni and Yuvraj Singh. The top probables which was unanimously reached to were 4 teams India , Pakistan , South Africa and Black Caps New Zealand.
First up Venkatesh said that the two teams he could put his money were New Zealand and Pakistan . He discounted India echoing his opinion as par with Vengsarkar. He said that India and South Africa have played too much of Cricket last 6 months and are fatigued.
He said
I think Pak are one of the favorites definitely.. not only do they have a very good 20-20 record (better win-loss ration than all international teams) but they also boast of the 2 top wicket takers in all T20 internationals - Gul and Afridi.Plus they are also the runners up.
His arguments against S Africa were that very pinpointed . He said " Have they ever won a World Cup? Knowing their luck, rain, a silly run out, or a blazing West Indian bat will keep them away from the title. In the recent past Johan Botha has captained South Africa in T20s. Smith is going to have a hard time taking over.
The final punch that he gave was "South Africa usually start every championship as one of the favorites, and we all know where they end up.I don't see why this time will be any different."
We he had a point well made that 12 of South Africa's world t20 squad members appearing in 7 different IPL teams, its going to be one hell of a confusion-galore dressing room with tons of strategies that neither Arthur nor Smith will know how to comprehend.
Ace batsman Tejoe on the other hand said that it has always been in the T20 form that the underdogs have taken the limelight and eventually win the crown . Eventually it will boil down to which of the unpredictable performers make their day and change the course of the game .
He says
I honestly believe any of the top8 can win, except for England who I just can't see winning 2 games in a row . India and SA are probably strongest on paper but it is being played in English conditions so I'd hesitate in backing India, Zaheer Khan will be key . I'd put my early money on SA but then again I'd never bet on 2020 as it's a bit of a lottery sometimes . My money is on the Black Caps NZ ... looks like a bunch of great guys who are very talented and unpredictable ... should be the series that makes Ross Taylor and Ryder into superstars in my opinion.
Tejoe was harsh in his evaluation of Australia . He said that it will be interesting to see the Australian squad when it comes out. There has been no assemblance of a settled T20 squad for Australia since it's inception. Seems anyone who can hold a bat or roll the arm over has had a game in the last few years.
Another top Ranji star from North Zone S Saini had the final wrap up comments on India's chances
He said
I think its a good squad, the only change I might have made would've been to have Abhishek Nayar in the side instead of Jadeja, as the squad already has plenty of spin options, another medium-pace all-rounder would have been handy (especially in English conditions).
Who ever wins , seems like another fest for the Cricket fans across the globe . COTN will be closely following the tournament and will bring all the views and analysis.
To comment on the views expressed by the expert panel, send your feedback to cricketonthenet@gmail.com
