Predicting The Semi-Finalists Of 2019 Cricket World Cup

The 2019 Cricket World Cup is just a couple of months away and just like the previous 11 editions of the World Cup, there are few certain favourites who can lift the prestigious trophy. The special thing about the 12th edition of the world cup is the fact that it will be held in the birthplace of cricket itself, England.

4) Australia

It's been a long time since Australia has been considered as the favourites to win a tournament like they were used to. The domination of the Australian side has definitely come to a halt. Despite being the defending champions, the Aussies are nowhere near the favourites to win the entire tournament. However, it wouldn't be a wise decision to write them off before any tournament.

The 2018 Sandpaper Gate was a huge setback for the Australian squad which saw two of the most prominent batsmen of the team, Steve Smith and David Warner serve a ban of 12 months. The Australian side has been through a transitional phase during this time. However, their recent 3-2 victory against India away from the home soil proved everyone that one cannot underestimate the Aussies.

With Smith and Warner returning to the team, the Australian squad is only going to get stronger than it was before.

3) New Zealand

New Zealand has been one of the most consistent teams along with the Proteas. However, just like the South African side, they have failed to win when it has mattered the most. The Blackcaps have been eliminated in the semi-finals a record 5 times. New Zealand had its best performance in the World Cup when they made it to the finals, losing to the co-host, Australia.

Despite its failures in the big stages, New Zealand is still a formidable opposition. The Kiwis comfortable clean-swept the likes of Sri Lanka and Bangladesh recently. However, a 4-1 defeat at the hands of the Indian cricket team was a sharp reminder of the challenges that they would face in the World Cup.

While it's hard to say if they could actually win the World Cup, it is no doubt they would make the semi-finals unless we see few shockers in the group stages.

2) India

The Indian Cricket team is in one of its strongest phases right now. Indian team boasts arguably the strongest batting line up in the world along with some quality fielders. India's bowling is however what sets them apart from many teams. What was once considered a headache, Men in Blue's bowling has impressed everyone over the last couple of years.

The Indian team registered resounding victories over the likes of Australia and New Zealand recently. However, a disappointing 3-2 defeat on their home soil against the Aussies was a necessary wake up call before the World Cup.

India has one of the most balanced sides in the entire tournament which makes them the strong contenders to win the World Cup.

1) England

England has come a long way since the 2015 World Cup. From being eliminated in the group stages to becoming the number 1 ranked ODI team in the world, the Englishmen have laid a strong statement for its opponents. England is perhaps the only team that possesses a team as balanced as the Indian side if not more.

Heading into the World Cup, England boasts impressive victories over the likes of Sri Lanka, Australia, and most notably, India. What makes England a clear favourite to win the entire tournament is that the World Cup will be held in England. The last two editions of the World Cup were won by the teams hosting the tournament. Hence, considering England's current form, it wouldn't be surprising if they do lift their first ever 50-over World Cup.