Now that quarter finals are around the corner let me guess the possible outcome of these matches. Except one match, the results of remaining three quarter-final matches seem obvious. Guess India, Australia and New Zealand will make it to semi-finals without much resistance from their opponents in the quarters. The match between South Africa and Sri Lanka is proving tough for the people to predict the outcome.
Both South Africa and Sri Lanka are evenly matched for this contest. South Africa might look more explosive on paper but Sri Lanka has the experience of playing far too many big knockout matches in ICC events compared to South Africa. The fact that South Africa last won a quarter-final match in an ICC tournament was in 2000, speaks volumes about their success rate in ICC tournaments. Coming to players, South Africa has Amla and Deviliers in the form of their life. They would be hoping both these players to fire in this crucial match. South Africa’s chances completely depend on how Amla, AB Deviliers, Miller play and Sri Lanka’s on Sangakkara’s.
India vs Bangladesh match should produce obvious result unless India underestimates Bangladesh’s capacity and plays casual cricket. India should remember that Bangladesh has the track record of defeating India in the past. With the kind of batting order India has and the form of their bowling unit, India should reach semi-final easily.
Australia vs Pakistan too should produce an obvious result. Whether it is on paper or based on recent form, Australia looks way too strong for Pakistan to defeat them. With Deep batting order, Strong Bowling group and home conditions, it should be a cake-walk over Pakistan for Australia in this match. But Pakistan being Pakistan, can produce a cracker of performance out of nowhere on their day. Australia should be vary of this possibility.
The last quarter-final between New Zealand and West Indies has the potential to be a cracker of a game. Both teams are extremely volatile and have high reserves of fire power in their pockets. Recent form and home advantage boost New Zealand’s chances immensely but West Indies can defeat any team on their day, especially in limited overs format. All New Zealand can hope is that day is not this match day.
If everything goes according and mostly it should, India should play Australia and New Zealand should play South Africa in Semi-finals. Let’s see.