Tendulkar Backs India To Win The World Cup 2019

What needs to be the favorite to win the biggest tournament? a perfectly balanced side that can compete in every condition in every part of the world, well, India is certainly that side and master blaster and legendary Sachin Tendulkar thinks the same as well.

After demolishing New Zealand by 4-1 in their own backyard, the batting maestro did not hesitate calling India as favorites to win the tournament for the third time in England and Wales this year.



"I have gone on record saying that we have a perfect balance in the team where we will be competitive in any part of the world or on any surface. As far as our chances are concerned, I will not hesitate in saying that we are the favorites," Tendulkar told PTI.

India's overseas form in last one year especially in limited overs cricket has been quite phenomenal. They beat South Africa in both ODIs and T20Is, beat England in T20Is, beat Australia in all three formats, and now the outplayed New Zealand in recently concluded 5-match series.

Just like New Zealand was outplayed in their own conditions, England too faced one of their biggest defeats in the Test series against a number 8 side (West Indies) in West Indies. However, despite England's poor showing, the master blaster certainly believes that England will be the toughest competition while New Zealand will be the dark horses.



"It’s all about getting the early momentum. My judgment on the toughest contenders would be England, while New Zealand would be the dark horse," he said. "I know New Zealand have struggled in this series but it’s a good unit, one needs to be on their toes."

Sachin Tendulkar also thinks that the inclusion of Steve Smith and David Warner will make Australia a formidable side. "I think Australia at full strength will be a formidable side. With Smith and David Warner back in the team and their other bowlers coming back into the ODI squad, it will be a competitive side," Tendulkar said.

The World Cup 2019 will kick start from May 30 with the host England and South Africa fixture at The Oval, London. The final of the tournament will be played on 14 July at the iconic Lord's cricket ground, London.

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