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I’m channelling my inner Juan Antonio Samaranch here instead of my Jacques Rogge. In the world of cricket, this has been the best World Cup ever.
Why?
11. Outstanding crowds
83,000 for Australia vs England, 84,000 South Africa vs India, a full Adelaide Oval, a full Auckland (twice), surely a full SCG for the second semi, and full regional grounds in New Zealand.
Not only were the grounds full and buzzing (especially in New Zealand), they were happy and harmonious. Stand by for a world record crowd on Sunday.
10. Outstanding batting
We have been privileged to see some phenomenal batting performances, capped off thus far by Martin Guptill’s crazy brilliant 237*.
I say thus far, because in this World Cup, with two games to go, who knows what else will happen!
Yes, the conditions are batsman friendly, but at the end of the day some of the performances transcended the conditions and the game itself – AB de Villier’s 162, Glenn Maxwell’s 51-ball 100. Of course Kumar Sangakkara’s four centuries in four innings will not be forgotten soon either.
9. Outstanding bowling
Yes, it’s been a tournament for the batsmen, but this World Cup will be won by the bowlers. Tim Southee devastated England with a 7-for, Brendon McCullum merely covered the coffin with a shedload of dirt.
Trent Boult demolished the Australian middle order, while Mitch Starc single-handedly turned that fixture from a game into a match. Even England somehow made the honours list, providing the first of two World Cup hattricks. Hats off to Dan Vettori and Imran Tahir as well.
The team who bowls best will win this World Cup.
8. Outstanding associate performances
From Ireland being cruelly denied a spot in the knockouts, to Afghanistan running Sri Lanka all the way, we’ve seen terrific performances by the associates, including the first nail-biter of the tournament between Scotland and Afghanistan.
The UAE had their best ever performance at a World Cup with bat and ball (not bad for a fully amateur team).
The associates have demonstrated the folly of the ICC chasing coin instead of respect in 2019.
7. The rise of Bangladesh
Finally, Bangladesh are starting to deliver matches at World Cups instead of practice runs for their opponents. They are still another World Cup away from being penciled in as bona fide quarter finalists, but they have finally lifted themselves off the mat. Brilliant to see.
6. Good, hard and fair cricket
Notwithstanding the ludicrous decision to fine Wahab Riaz and Shane Watson for their terrific square off, we’ve seen the best cricket played by all sides and in the best spirit.
The aforementioned battle between the two Ws will be recalled for years, but let’s also remember the grace Afghanistan displayed when they won their first ever match against Scotland. Celebrations yes, but also remembering their sportsmanship.
Also, Zimbabwe vs Ireland: a match with a hint of controversy at the end, but Zimbabwe to their credit didn’t spoil the mood by complaining.
Even the Australian’s have been magnanimous when they lost. Who’d have thunk it?
5. Glenn Maxwell
He has been a treat to watch in this World Cup. I was one of the many who questioned his worth to the side before the World Cup, and he has proved me wrong.
He has dazzled the crowds with his insane batting and has also demonstrated that he can be the sportsman on the field. Yes, he pulled the choke action with the New Zealand crowd, but was then the first to congratulate the crowd in Auckland that day.
The all-round entertainer is the man that India and New Zealand will fear most over the next week.
4. The early departure of England
Only one European airline flies to Australia these days. Fortunately for the English cricket team, it is their national carrier. Lucky.
The English cricket team came here with computers, data analysts and a legion of support staff – apparently including a coach. But they forgot to come with any discernible understanding of one day cricket. Bon voyage.
3. The Slumdog Millionaire New Zealand team
They are playing in the same way Jamal won in the movie: as if it is their destiny. As a non-Kiwi, this has been excellent to watch.
2. The weather
Only one game abandoned, and a handful requiring the Duckworth/Lewis method. It’s been fantastic for the crowds, fantastic for TV, and fantastic for the players. I doubt we will be so lucky in England in 2019.
1. The Tui catch a million promotion
How good is this? Seven Kiwis are guaranteed a minimum of $107,000. The full grounds in New Zealand owe so much gratitude for this promotion. It’s been in place for a couple of years now and New Zealand cricket saw a 20 per cent increase in crowds last year as a result.
So why doesn’t an Aussie beer company piggyback this idea?
Well done host nations Australia and New Zealand. You’ve outdone yourselves.
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