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Sri Lanka-Fresh off an impressive victory in the Asia Cup, the Sri Lankans are among the favourites for the title. The batting line up looks extremely strong, led by Kumar Sangakkara, and will prove difficult to deal with for any bowling nation. The team’s bowlers are also on top form as they look to surpass their two second places in the last two finals.
West Indies-as defending champions it is hard to see past them as title contenders but the pressure will be on. Unfortunately Kevin Pollard will not be part of the squad through injury which will be a huge miss for them; however the team looked good in a recent win over England. Their confidence will be flying high and they’ll be ready to defend their title.
England’s chances?
The champions of 2010 will be looking to repeat the feat as they prepare for this year’s tournament. However, they will be without their main man from 4 years ago, Kevin Pietersen after the unpopular decision to sack him. Also there are question marks over the fitness levels of both Stuart Broad and Eoin Morgan; with both being pivotal to England’s success this year. There are positive signs though as the opening duo of Hales and Lumb have proved to be an exciting pair to watch. Hales’ wide range of shots and Lumb’s huge hitting make a deadly combination; although Lumb may come unstuck against the spin in Bangladesh. Jos Buttler will also be one to watch as the wicketkeeper-batsman is expected to give the finishing touches in the end overs. His powerful, flamboyant & sporadic batting could prove to be the difference. Overall England are not one of the favourites this year, however they are definitely worth keeping an eye on.
WRITTEN BY SEB JENKINS
Squad- Stuart Broad (c), Eoin Morgan, Chris Jordan, Ian Bell, Alex Hales, Michael Lumb, Stephen Parry, James Tredwell, Moeen Ali, Ravi Bopara, , Chris Woakes, Jade Dernbach, Tim Bresnan, Jos Buttler (wk), Luke Wright.