Since the format of the current World Cup is quite interesting, one can’t write off teams on the basis of their current form and performances.

I feel that Australia and New Zealand will do well since they are playing at home. South Africa has a good chance of breaking into the top four as well because they are well-prepared in every possible way. Sri Lanka may not have done well in New Zealand as they lost the 7-match series 4-2, but trust me; they are one of the better sides in the world. Their performance in the World Cup speaks volumes.

They were runners up in both 2007 and 2011. They have a balanced side with quality all-rounders and, like defending champions India, batting in power play (with five fielders inside the ring) suits them. Yes, India couldn’t do well in Australia but they know the conditions and that might help them in the mega event.

As for Pakistan, we might not have had ideal preparations but you cannot write off Pakistan; reaching the quarter final should be the first priority for team Pakistan and it might seem a hurdle at first but it will either make or break the tournament for them.

From there onwards, if the team is performing well it will be easy sailing but if they aren’t, their trip will be cut short. Pakistan lacks in the bowling department and what sets apart teams like Australia and England from us is the presence of 5th and 6th bowler in their line-up. Glenn Maxwell and Mitchell Marsh can bowl as many as 10 overs each if required and same can be said of Ravi Bopara and Moeen Ali for England. We don’t have a 5th bowler in our team so how can we even think of a 6th one at this time.

On the whole, I believe the World Cup will be an interesting one. Whichever team will hold its nerve in the knock out round will qualify for the next round no matter how many world class players you have in the side. Predicting the top four will be a difficult task but let’s hope that the best four reach the semi-finals so that cricket is the winner.