Brian Lara predicts World Cup 2019 winner, says will not be surprised if THIS team wins

As the mega event ICC Cricket World Cup is nearing, the fever is getting stronger. On one hand, when all teams are working regressively with the full fortitude to keep no box unturned, the cricket pundits, on the other, are busy analysing the teams. One such is West Indies legend Brian Lara, who has predicted his favourite team to get their hand on the coveted 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.

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“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.”

HIGHLIGHTS

• Brian Lara has led West Indies two times in ICC World Cup.
• Windies will play their first league game against Pakistan. 
• Chris Gayle will quit International cricket after World Cup 2019.