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The two hosts of the current World Cup tournament – New Zealand and Australia – have both had a strong tournament to date. But, should it come down to it, which one of the two will lift the World Cup?
New Zealand or Australia? To me that is the question at the moment. I said from the start that New Zealand would be hard to beat at home and they are proving so currently.
Australia are going along nicely, even though they have not settled their line-up and don’t really know the best team to go with.
The short but entertaining battle between these two nations the other day showed maybe just how even it is. Yes, there is South Africa who could be up there, but that loss to India means they will most likely finish second in their group.
Finishing second means they will be on the same side of the draw as a red-hot Kiwi outfit. Having to play the Kiwis at home means my tip would be New Zealand.
With Australia now most likely to have the rest of their games in Australia, they will be hard to beat as well, more so now having Faulkner back in the team due to his finishing abilities.
Also, the presence of their leader in Clarke will give them experience and direction.
They should finish second in their group behind the Kiwis. If they make it, they will face India in the semi, which should be a win for Australia.
Now for the final. It will be a Trans-Tasman game, such a big rivalry and to have that as the final with both host nations in will draw a record crowd and record viewers.
A tightly contested match with my only concern being how can New Zealand perform in Australia. You can say the conditions aren’t that much different, but playing on your home turf is always a better place to be – especially in front of 100,000 people.
If it was to get to this as a final, I would be thrilled if Australia were to win it but you know what, I would be equally as thrilled for New Zealand.
They are the best ODI side in the world at the moment, and deserve to lift the trophy.
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