India have a balanced side that can win World Cup, feels Brian Lara

As the ICC World Cup is nearing, the fever is getting stronger. Experts are busy pushing through their last-minute analyses. As far as picking the favourites is concerned, there is a unanimity of sorts as most are going for England and India. Former West Indies captain Brian Lara is also among those who feel that the Indian side that will compete in the World Cup under the leadership of Virat Kohli is a balanced one and is capable of clinching the title.

India will better Lara’s Windies to become the second-most successful team in the World Cup if they win the trophy. Currently, both India and the West Indies have two WC crowns each. The 50-year-old who led the Windies team in two World Cups – 1999 and 2007 – but could never make the semi-finals also considers hosts England as one of the title contenders not only because of the home advantage but also the form they are in. England are currently ranked No.1 side in the ODIs and recently thrashed Pakistan 4-0 in an ODI series at home.

Won’t be surprising if India win the World Cup, says Lara

“Nobody will be surprised if India becomes the champions. They have been doing well in different conditions. India have a very balanced team. It will not be an upset if they win the Cup. No doubt India are very strong,” Lara was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz.

Talking about the England team, he said, “I don’t know whether they are favourites or not but they are definitely one of the contenders. Any host nation will try to become champion in any sport. Naturally, England will also try to give their best shot and take away the Cup. We have to remember that although the tournament started in 1975, they have never won a World Cup title. They will try this time like never before and to be honest, they have got a very good side.”

England had made the semi-finals each time between 1975 and 1992 and even made the finals thrice in that period. However, between 1996 and 2015, the Three Lions have not made the semi-final even once.

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