Most people have India down as favourites to win the World Cup, but it was Sri Lanka who lifted the trophy the last time the competition was held on the sub-continent. If King Kumar’s team win Group A then they could play all their matches at home right up until the final in Mumbai. So, can lightning strike twice? And will it be Murali rather than Tendulkar who is the all-time great that bows out of ODI cricket with a World Cup winners medal?
Strengths
It’s a long list, but here goes. Firstly, they will play most of their matches at home where they have a formidable record. Then there is the explosive batting of Dilshan, Sangakkara and Jayawardene, the balance provided by Mathews and a strong and varied bowling attack led by Malinga and Murali.
Weaknesses
Expectation is much higher than in 1996, so none of the other teams will underestimate Sri Lanka this time. Malinga’s injury record isn’t great and with Vaas gone, who will lead the attack if the man with the unplayable yorker is missing?
Main man
In 1996 it was Sanath Jayasuriya who lit the tournament up with this electric batting, so we’ll go for his successor Tillakaratne Dilshan. With him providing quick runs at the top of the order, the powerful middle order can fill their boots afterwards.
Look out for…
Some big hitting from Angelo Mathews – his name may be more suited to Aussie soap Home & Away, but expect to see him adding plenty of quickfire runs in the latter overs.
Prediction
Winners – Indian hearts were broken by Sri Lanka in the semi-final in 1996, and The Reverse Sweep predicts the same thing will happen - only this time in the final.
Where next?
World Cup Team previews: Part 1 - India: Glory or effigies?
World Cup Team Previews: Part 2 - South Africa: Don't mention the 'C' word...
World Cup Team Previews: Part 3 - Bangladesh: Shock & Awe
World Cup Team Previews: Part 4 - West Indies: Calypso or Collapso?
World Cup Team Previews: Part 5 - England: How far can resilience take them?
World Cup Team Previews: Part 6 - Ireland/Canada/Kenya/Netherlands: Last chance for the minnows?
World Cup Team Previews: Part 7 - Zimbabwe - An army of spin
World Cup Team Previews: Part 8 - Australia: Four in a row?
World Cup Team Previews: Part 9 - Pakistan: Tigers or Pussies?
Our XI to shine at the World Cup
Check out all our Reverse Sweep heroes and zeroes including Muttiah Muralitharan
If you like this, follow us on Twitter @thereversesweep
Comments