The 12th edition of the ICC World Cup 2019 has begun at the Kennington Oval in England. The hosts England has claimed their first win of the tournament against South Africa. Well, either of the teams has not won a single title yet and will be seeking to use this opportunity judiciously. Ahead of the tournament, Kevin Pieterson has picked his favourites to win the trophy. Former England has picked India and transformed England as his favourites of the premier event.
Almost every one of the critics in cricket has picked England, India and Australia as their favourites for the gala event. Australia has suddenly risen as the threatening side shortly after the arrival of David Warner and Steven Smith.
However, India and England have played some good games in the past few months. Reformed England looks stronger than ever having won 17 of the 22 ODI matches played.
Meanwhile, India has defeated South Africa, Australia and New Zealand away from home. However, doubts were seeded after their defeat against New Zealand in the first warm-up game. But India seemingly remained unfazed by the loss and won the second practice match against Bangladesh by 95 runs.
Kevin Pieterson reveals his favourites for the ICC World Cup 2019:
A former right-handed batsman of England has picked India and reformed England as most likely to win the title trophy this time. He praised both the sides and felt happy with the way English cricket has changed.
Pieterson, who had a love-hate relationship with English Cricket Board (ECB), said its satisfying to see the change in the England players.
“Eoin Morgan has transformed them. I’m not surprised because I was sat on a train with him years ago, talking about the way we need to play positive cricket,” said Pieterson.
Apart from India and England, Pieterson pinned Australia as the dark horse while calling Windies as unpredictable in the tournament.
“India and England are probably the favourites. But the dark horses are Australia and the unpredictables are West Indies.” Pietersen said.
Pieterson believes in the present skipper of England, Eoin Morgan to lead the team in the right direction. And seems happy about the game plan being used by the team in international cricket.