Sport Planet – 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup
The ICC Cricket World Cup is finally here!
Fans of the game are in for a crunching weekend with some entertaining fixtures on offer to open the event. In fact, fans are in for a month’s-and-a-half of cricket entertainment with the showpiece running from February 14 all the way to March 29.
As per tradition with major sporting events, the host nation – nations in this case (Australia and New Zealand) – will feature in the first two matches of the jamboree.
Cricket
Saturday, February 14
New Zealand v Sri Lanka, Hagley Oval, Christchurch
The Black caps will be coming into their opening fixture oozing with confidence having completed their preparations with a thumping 134-run victory over highly-favoured South Africa on Wednesday.
Brendon McCullum’s men will of course also be buoyed by home ground advantage against Angelo Mathews side. With Sri Lanka boasting names such as Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene, the 1996 champions will be stiff competition for the co-hosts.
The clash is scheduled for a 12am start.
My prediction: NZ to edge it.
Australia v England, Melbourne Cricket Ground
Co-hosts and favourites Australia play England in a final-esque heavyweight clash in what is arguably the stand-out fixture of the weekend along with India v Pakistan. Expectations are high for Michael Clarke’s side who have won the tournament a record four times to add a fifth crown – especially at home. An unlikely Aussie scalp for the English would set them up perfectly for their second tough test in the form of New Zealand – and perhaps trigger a run toward their first World Cup triumph?
The clash is scheduled for a 5.30am start.
My prediction: Australia.
Sunday, February 15
South Africa v Zimbabwe, Seddon Park, Hamilton
Having come off a heavy defeat against New Zealand in their preparations, the Proteas will be provided an opportunity to redeem themselves against Zimbabwe, with all due respect to the opponents. In hot form apart from their recent loss and tipped as to lift the trophy alongside Australia – AB de Villiers’ side come out of this one unscathed.
The clash is scheduled for a 3am start.
My prediction: South Africa.
India v Pakistan, Adelaide Oval
The defending champions begin their title defence against Pakistan. A victory could go a long way in achieving that feat.
The clash is scheduled for a 5.30am start.
My prediction: India to nick it.
