I didn't see an earlier topic so I hope I'm not spamming this board. Newbie nerves I guess.

A lot of people are assuming Australia are shoe-ins for the WC in Feburary based on thier fine test results. IMO, however, it is not a one horse race as many believe. South Africa are probably just as good as Australia and there are 4-5 other nations that could lift the cup if they played consistently all month.

Brief Nation by Nation Breakdown:

Australia will start as favourites and are strong in all areas. I would question their depth in some key positions e.g. Openers, Spin but should be full of confidence after a successful summer. As long as Gilchrist, Ponting, McGrath et. al. stay fit, they will be formidable in every match. Warnes injury could be costly but Darren Lehmann has shown enough to be considered an adeqaute replacement.

South Africa are in the shadow of Australia at the moment. But remember last Janurary when they matched the Aussies in the world series? With Kirsten back at the top of the order, they have a solid base that is complimented by Gibbs, Dippennar, Kallis and Rhodes. The bowling attack needs to become more consistent, however, and Kluesner and Donald will end to rediscover past glories if they are to restrict opponents.

India are always touted at world cup time, but it is difficult to see them winning in 2003. The South African pitches won't suit their two best bowlers, Kumble and Harbajan and, with a question mark hanging over the future of Javagal Shrinath, their attack looks very weak. This could all be irrelevant, however, if India's star batsmen fire. Dravid, Ganguly and Tendulker are all world class players but are supported by a team of players who struggle for consistency at international level. India needs all its big names fit and firing to have any hope of lifting the trophy.

Pakistan are difficult to asses. They have a more even spread of talent than India, but are the most inconsistent side in the world. At their best, with great players like Youhana, Waqar and Saqlain, they are a match for even Australia, but they will need to produce this throughout the tournament to have any chance of winning it. Their bowling is their strength but, like the rest of the side, is prone to falter often. It'd be brave to bet on them because it's difficult seeing them being brilliant for a month. But if they do, watch out!

New Zealand are dark horses. Nothing much is expected from them and, to be fair, they will probably be content with a semifinal place. Cairns is the key. At the moment he is being nursed back to full fitness in preperation for the WC. NZ will need him to be a threat, especially in the bowling department where Bond will be the only truly attacking bowler. The batting is stronger but inconsistent. Astle, MacMillian and Cairns can all win a match almost singlehandedly, but tend not to fire simaultaneously. It'll need a real team effort for them to progress farther than the Super Six

England lack confidence and, beacuse of this, will not win the cup. On paper, they are probably the 3rd or 4th strongest teams but after a disasterous tour of Australia and with injuries to key players, their morale must be at an all time low. the batting needs to become more consistent and the selectors quickly need to find some middle order players to support Hussain, Knight and Treschothick. If Giles and Flintoff are unavailable, the bowling lineup will likely be equivalent to that of a C team and consequetly, should not trouble any of the better teams.

Sri Lanka have lost the spark of 1996. Kalu's bursts at the start of the innings ahve become a thing of the past. SL's best batsems, Jayasuria aside, now tend to be more tradtional, steady players (Attapattu, Sangakkara, Jayawardene). If they drop the smash and hit appoach, they could post some good scores which would help their workhorse bowlers. Murali will not be the factor that SL would like but will probably still be the keystone, supported by the underrated Vaas. A super six finish at the most.

The West Indies are finding form at the right time. Their batting is beginning to look more solid with Chris Gayle performing at the top of the order supported by the in form Chanderpaul and Sarwan with Lara still to return. The bowling will rely on pace, which will suit the conditions, povided by Collins, Cuffy and freinds. If they continue playing consistently, they could suprise many by reaching the Semi's.

Zimbabwe will be hoping to replicate their Super Six finish of 4 years ago. They rely heavily of the batting dept. of Grant and Andy Flower, Alistair Campbell and some consistent lesser-knowns. The bowling will revolve around Heath Streak and will be helped by (near) local conditions. If they play to their higehest potential, they could reach the 2nd round, but it would be a major suprise to see them beyond that.

Canada, Holland, Namibia and Bangladesh are unlikely to feature in the final mix but all are possible of upsetting one of the big nine.

In short:
1st - Australia
2nd - Pakistan
3rd - South Africa
3rd - New Zealand

That is overrating the current Paki side quite a lot. They are a shadow of their former selves. The gap between Australia and the next best in South Africa is gaping - 5-1 last time in South Africa. They are also playing better all round as a team. Warne's shoulder is somewhat of a worry, but signs are that he will come up alright.
Question Australia's depth in openers? Hayden and Gilchrist, with Maher as reserve opener. Martyn and Lehmann can bat there also. Warne or Macgill will do for spin. Watson should be axed and replaced by Blewett or Steve Waugh.
Last January was with a different team, and a different selection policy. The true measure of the two sides can be seen from the series in South Africa.

Well, I, like many others, cannot see much further than Australia.

Mind you, now we have our first victory in the current Australian Tour ( :rolleyes: ), we could be vying the Aussies for that trophy. :p

Originally posted by Pillager
Well, I, like many others, cannot see much further than Australia.

Mind you, now we have our first victory in the current Australian Tour ( :rolleyes: ), we could be vying the Aussies for that trophy. :p

You beat Ceylon. After losing to the Prime Minister's XI.
The way those delightful little men from the island where they grow tea are playing, it is not much to boast about. :p :D

Originally posted by Simon Darkshade
The gap between Australia and the next best in South Africa is gaping - 5-1 last time in South Africa.

And last time in Australia? :p

I would say that at least Australia are being spared from having to play NZ in the round-robin phase. That should help their chances if previous world-cups are anything to go by.

I don't actually rate NZs chances too highly, although I think that they are in the weaker pool and should be able to get through to the super 6 stage. The thing about the world cup is that once you get to the super-6 anyone can win it. :)

Originally posted by Simon Darkshade


You beat Ceylon. After losing to the Prime Minister's XI.
The way those delightful little men from the island where they grow tea are playing, it is not much to boast about. :p :D

Indeed. Don't you worry - boasting was not in abundance over here. Relief, yes, embarrassment, definitely, as the full realisation of the shambolic nature of the tour is finally sinking in.


BTW, Ainwood, I'll assume you're excluding England from that last sentence.

Originally posted by Pillager
BTW, Ainwood, I'll assume you're excluding England from that last sentence. :lol: Not necessarily - but it is aimed at the teams that get through to the super 6 stage ;)

Yeah, good point. Excluding England would be irrelevant, you're right.

well, not sure about the west indies, but in reality i think that only new zealand and south africa can challenge australia. judged on most recent performances, south africa can't, but new zealand? who knows? pakistan and india shouldn't factor too heavily.

Well, in the semis and finals it'll only take one game to knock out one of the favourites and if anyone is capable of having one outstanding game, it's Pakistan. They'll get through to the super six easy enough and if they manage to reach the semifinals, I would rather meet Australia there than them. They are the kind of side that can be crap for 30 games on the trot and then bowl you out for 100. Maybe it's just NZ's WC record against them, 1992 :(, that makes me rate them but I genuinly think they can win the thing.

NZ are coming into good form over the last two years. I would be dissapointed if we didn't reach at least the semis. We can beat anyone on our day but it's asking a bit much for us to win the thing. Mind you we did beat Aus, Pak and Ind on the way to the 2000 ICC knockout crown!

Ye must be basing your estimations on Pakistan on the last World Cup, as they have been a shocking disgrace lately in both forms of the game.
They can have an on-day, but it is nothing that good teams could not cope with.
NZ seem to be peaking a while beforehand, and rely upon Cairns to a great extent. Their allrounders never really hit it off in combination.
The Windies could be a smokey.

keep in mind our A team could likely beat most these teams.

Pakistan were miserable last time we played them too. I might back them on their own turf, but not in SA.

Now that the Ashes Series is complete, the Aussies can start concentrating on their World Cup preparations.

Though with matches against Sri Lanka (who have been thrashed by the Australian 2nd XI) and England (struggling, but now with some momentum) hardly seems good practice. Maybe they should be practicing against the Australia A team.

Anyway, the World Cup is an unpredictable tournament. Any team could have a terrific game one day and put in a shocker the next. The team who can put in the most consistently good performances over the competition will probably win, though upsets are likely to happen once the semis arrive.

Ok! I give in! Pakistan are crap. Happy? Actually you did have a point about me rating them on past performances but after they were mauled by South Africa I agree that they probably won't be able to challenge for the cup. And you can write of India too after their recent display in NZ. Doesnt leave many teams in with a shot does it? England actually look quite good at the moment.

And NZ holds their breath as Astle sees a specialist.

Right, time to make a daring prediction: The Windies will do very well.

Now that Ceylon seem to have lost their main chucker, they can be discounted if the injury is as nasty as it seems.

Everyone seems to think that all Australia need to do is turn up.
Just like they did for the ICC Champions Trophy.......

This is not being held in the rarified climate of the Indies, and neither is it a Mickey Mouse trophy. Somewhat different. :D

Originally posted by Simon Darkshade
Right, time to make a daring prediction: The Windies will do very well.

I have to agree with Simon here. The Windies have some up and coming batsmen who could just sneak under the guard of a few teams.

There really aren't too many teams that are really outstanding at the moment. Pakistan can be very hit and miss, while India and Sri Lanka will probably struggle to do well on the South African pitches (even if they do field full strength sides). South Africa should do well at home, and should expect to make the semis at least. New Zealand, like the West Indies, are another team that could sneak through quietly, especially if their allrounders (Cairns, McMillan, et. al, ) fire. England are just starting to find a combination that could do well, but really need their top order to bat well if they are going to go anywhere.

Forget about the rest, they're bonus point material.

My Prediction at this point (subject to change prior to the start of the tournament)

Winner: Australia
Runner Up: South Africa
Semi 1: West Indies
Semi 2: England

I don't believe it's a one horse race at all for the cup. Not even a two horse race. Australia and Sth Africa should both definately make the semis barring monumental upsets or a bad run of injuries. But I think you've also got a side like NZ who are definately capable of playing well on bouncy wickets and who have a good recent record against the Aussies. Then again, they have a terrible record against the Proteas.

A team like Pakistan is definately a concern because as lord byron mentioned, they're capable of anything. I think though they're becoming less capable of the unexpected. But like all other world cups, it's all about timing. Pakistan in 1992 were on the verge of being knocked out of the whole tournament when they suddenly knocked over the Aussies and began a charge to the title. You only have to look at what Australia did in 99 as further proof that it comes down to timing and the ability to lift when it matters.

I'm looking forward to watching the cup. I hope Warney can go out a winner and the Aussies can go on to win it, but there will be question marks on the ability of Hogg, Symonds and Watson to perform under intense pressure and on Ponting's ability to lead his team in tight games.

Can't wait. :)

My predictions about the World Cup

Best Chance:-South Africa( AFter 3 times of being so close yet so far I have a feeling that they might make it)

2nd Best:-Australia (Easily the best One Day team in the World)

3rd:-India Bowling is looking up and we did have NZ batsmen in a spot of bother and could have won a couple of matches more but for the batting.

4th:-Windies/England/Pakistan--Equally good, but inconsistent.
However, I am not taking the 114 all out onto account;)

SL,NZ,ZIM, good chances if they get into Super SIX but will have to do really well in their groups.

The rest are irrelevant:p

South Africa? I would not characterize them as being close three times, and I do not see them really giving it a shake this time; they are psychologically under the thumb of Australia.
India? :lol: No one else but their own supporters gives them a hope, and they have never been known for their grasp of reality. They were done over well and truly in NZ, and are hometown heroes who struggle on pitches different from those prepared at home. Not a chance. :D
Ditto the Pakis.
England have a long journey back up, based upon current results and form... :yeah:

Maybe South Africa have their best chance now that a certain S Waugh is not part of the Aussie team. Then again, he wasn't there in early 2002 when the Aussies won 5-1.

But one day cricket can be a real lottery. A huge hundred from a Gilchrist, Tendulkar, Afridi, Gibbs, Vaughan or Lara one any given day could give their opposition an impossible score to chase. You could even throw in Jayasuriya after his 3 big efforts recently.

That's what makes this world cup very intriguing - there could be all sorts of semi final scenarios or even final scenarios that could happen.

I just hope the Aussies get home :D

Injuries to McGrath and Gillespie are a worry. Warnie should be fine. but anyway, we have many good bowlers, they just aren't in the squad. If Australia loses, it's going to be either bad luck or selection/injuries biting us on the bum. Hogg is good, and Williams has really proved himself recently. I don't know if Bracken is there, but he's handy, as is Ashley Noffke. We could have Ryan Campbell in there too, as he is all good.

The winning spell continues, with a brilliant bowling spell by Brett Lee :yeah: :D
World Cup, here we come! :D

The injury troubles do raise some potential cause for concern - Bevan will miss at least a couple, one would think, Lehmann will miss one due to foot in mouth disease, and McGrath and Gillespie do not 100%.
Be that as it may, the back up is rather good, and Warne is back and in form.
Watson's injury has its positives and negatives - he was moving into some form, but he still wasn't quite the real deal. Now the juggling and choice between Harvey and Symonds begins...maybe they could be merged using evil technology? :evil:
Through adversity, we will triumph. :yeah:

Originally posted by Simon Darkshade
The injury troubles do raise some potential cause for concern - Bevan will miss at least a couple, one would think, Lehmann will miss one due to foot in mouth disease, and McGrath and Gillespie do not 100%.

Aw Tendulakr and Sehwag will miss out on a few sixes.:(
Originally posted by Simon Darkshade

Be that as it may, the back up is rather good, and Warne is back and in form.


For a moment you had me worried there;):hammer::hammer:

Originally posted by Simon Darkshade

Watson's injury has its positives and negatives - he was moving into some form, but he still wasn't quite the real deal. Now the juggling and choice between Harvey and Symonds
Oh please, just because they could bowl a few overs against tired out clapped out bunch English pricks who seem to play with a stick of rhubarb, does'nt make them even a tad bit competent to play in the World Cup.
I am still perplexed as to why a talentless goon waste of flesh called Andrew Symonds gets into a World Cup team when a really talented youngster like Brad Williams does not:confused:

Originally posted by allhailIndia


Aw Tendulakr and Sehwag will miss out on a few sixes.:(


For a moment you had me worried there;):hammer::hammer:


Oh please, just because they could bowl a few overs against tired out clapped out bunch English pricks who seem to play with a stick of rhubarb, does'nt make them even a tad bit competent to play in the World Cup.
I am still perplexed as to why a talentless goon waste of flesh called Andrew Symonds gets into a World Cup team when a really talented youngster like Brad Williams does not:confused:

1.) Who?

2.) Speak more respectfully to your master, sepoy! :rant: :D

3.)Well, Brad Williams is not young, and is purely a pace bowler. He is behind in the queue for that.
Symonds allegedly can bowl mediums, off spin, and hit...
And as for lacking competence for playing in World Cups, people in glass houses shouldn't get undressed with the light on. :p

And, in news just in, the MCC has proclaimed that in order to strengthen the England side, they will revert to the pre-WW2 practice of allowing Indian princes to play for England in the manner of Ranjisinghi. Sachin Tendulkar is to be made Prince of a small village in West Yorkshire named Horses Ready. Other appointments may follow.
Critics have said that this will take away from the English character of the game, and give preference over traditional English players such as Owais Shah, Mark Ramprakash, Usman Afzaal, Kabir Ali, Mudhsuden Singh Panesar, Vikram Solanki, and Ronnie Irani.
Nasser Hussain was unavailable for comment, having been seized by the SAS, and taken to an undisclosed location for interrogation about his Iraqi cousin Saddam. :evil:

Originally posted by Simon Darkshade
Nasser Hussain was unavailable for comment, having been seized by the SAS, and taken to an undisclosed location for interrogation about his Iraqi cousin Saddam. :evil:
LOL that wacky SAS :)

but on the all-rounder spot, Ian Harvey is a master of the game and well deserves his place, it's just that he's only just come back from injury and he hasn't played much over the last year. No end better than Symonds who is rubbish. I would imagine if McGrath and Gillespie aren't up for it, Williams and Bracken would take their place. and maybe we could bring back Steve Waugh if bevo can't make it back, altho they do say he's not as bad as he looked. But anyway, Brett Lee is looking lethal, the up and coming bowler of international cricket. Hopefully he travels well, cos he is looking very impressive right now.

It seems that Bevan should be right to play for the early matches of the tournament (maybe even the first match), which just improves the Aussies chances of getting off to a good start in the tournament.

With McGrath, Warne and Gillespie coming through unscathed in the practise matches, and with Brett Lee firing, it is a formidable bowling line-up. Spells trouble for opposition teams.

Originally posted by KingWilly
With McGrath, Warne and Gillespie coming through unscathed in the practise matches, and with Brett Lee firing, it is a formidable bowling line-up. Spells trouble for opposition teams. Let's hope so .... :D

Looks like NZ is going to throw away a win by refusing to play in Kenya. I think we're gonna struggle to make the S6 if we forfeit this game.

I still like New Zealand's chances of making it through to the Super 6 stage even if they don't play in Kenya. I wonder what the reaction would be back in NZ if they miss out on the Super 6 after not going to Kenya - would their decision not to go be rediculed and castigated ?

Everyone is being really supportive. I think it's the right move seeing as we were almost blown to smithereens in Pakistan this year.

I think its perfectly understandable that the NZ team wouldn't want to play in kenya, but as i understand they didn't even have the choice (not that the choice would make a difference). I would've thought that given the pakistan incident, there would be much more caution shown security wise. Oh well, i guess we'll find out soon enough...

ok then, lets hear who the man of the world cup will be. I'm tipping Brett Lee - speaking of, did everyone hear about Akhtar saying that he wasn't a matchwinner :rolleyes: Brett's really improved and is really a very valuable player now.

Firstly, I think the decision made by NZ is the right one. After seeing Stephen Fleming in the press conference just after the Pakistan incident last year, there was always going to be a very slim chance of them playing in a country that is a security danger.

I just can't wait for the games to begin and for terrorism and politics to stay out of the tournament. The Australia-Pakistan game is going to be a corker to start with on Tuesday and if the Aussies aren't switched on, they could easily get beaten.

As for the man of the tournament, I think you could be on the right track bobgote. It could well be a bowler who gets the award as it'll probably be the bowlers who end up deciding who takes the trophy home. There are a lot of could batsmen around, but a big match bowler (Warne, McGrath, Muralitharan, Pollock, Akram etc) can turn a game on its head and get a team home. I heard what Akhtar said, and a few months ago, I would have agreed with him. But, Lee really stepped up in the VB series, improved his economy rate and got the big wickets at the start and end of games to get the Aussies home. Akhtar could rue those ill chosen words after they meet on Tuesday ....

Warne, McGrath, Muralitharan, Pollock, Akram etc

...Bond...

Man of tournament for me will be a suprise. Maybe Gary Kirsten?

And now, directly from the first match, the West Indian innings score:

278/5. After starting at a snails pace, they went at a blistering rate, with Lara making a brilliant hundred, and handy contributions from several others. If they can restrict South Africa and win this opening game, then the cat will really be among the pigeons.

Well, what a great effort by the Windies to get over the Proteas in today's game. I only saw the first 15 and last 17 overs of the game (the time zones make it difficult in Oz to get some sleep and watch the cricket) but I enjoyed what I saw.

Lara, Chanderpaul, Hooper, Powell and Sarwan must have batted really well to get 278 and their bowlers did a good enough job to hang on. Klusener's hitting was just unbelievable and I really thought when they needed 14 off 12 balls they were home. It just goes to show you that anything is possible in ciricket.

I just wonder how many more upsets there'll be in the tournament.

Great way to start the tournament though :)

:eek:

Shane Warne is banished. Will it make any difference? End of Australia's chances? The impetus needed for England to step up and take the trophy? :lol:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/go/homepage/int/sport/h1/-/news/sport3/cwc2003/hi/newsid_2740000/newsid_2747600/2747627.stm

Latest score: Australia 148-5 (30 overs)

Warney, Warney, Warney :nono:

NZ aren't going to qualify for the Super Six now and I will lose a lot of respect for NZ cricket if they change their mind on Kenya. But Scotty Styris...:worshp:

And Australia crush the Pakis thanks to a magnificent innings by Andrew Symonds, recently maligned by some in this thread.
The Warne situation is a vexing one, but the matter has just barely been broached, and it is too early for any conclusive statements to be made. Will he be missed? It remains to be seen.

It only took 55 matches, but finally Andrew Symonds showed the promise and ability that so many said he had. I doubted whether he'd ever make 30 in a game again, but when it really mattered he played an innings that not many in the world could have played. Certainly, not Bevan or Lehmann who he replaced.

I just hope he can make this the start of something big, not just for this tournament but for the rest of his career. It was a great comeback from the Aussies, considering they were 4-88 and had the Warne saga to deal with. Obviously, warney wasn't missed out there yesterday, but there will come a time in the Super 6 or finals when Ponting will wish he could turn to him.

Great effort Symonds :goodjob:

But Warney :sad:

I'm afraid that could be the last we'll ever see of Warney playing international cricket ....

I see the Canadians beat woeful Bangladesh. Super 6 beckons?

That might be a bit optimistic for Canada. I certainly like their chances more than England or New Zealand ....

Considering they're not gifting wins to Kenya and Zimbabwae, respectivley

I wonder if the stance taken by NZ over Kenya will change at all in the coming few days. I suppose it all depends on how they go tonight against the Windies and against SAF on Sunday, but they may have no choice but to play and win in Kenya if they want to make the Super 6.

I think the game tonight between NZ and WI should be very interesting considering it could sound the deathknell for NZ's chances should they lose. The Windies do have a very strong batting lineup. The Kiwis will probably need to bat first and put a big total on the board to put the pressure on the Windies.

I think everyone else should just pack up and go home. Australia will win this no problems. We start the game, having lost Warne that very day, and missing the worlds best averaging batsman (bevan) and another key mid-order batsman, our top order collapses, but STILL we manage to get 310. And then bowl out pakistan, who many thought to be a genuine contender. The Aussies will take a lot of beating. From the other matches we've seen, who can do it? Oh, and btw that was with Brett Lee bowling poorly (i think he was put off by the goings-on with shoaib). While Brett Lee is very good technically, he can still be lured into those sorts of things, but i doubt anyone other than shoaib will do it to him.

Any comments over the Rashid Latif racism claims?

and NZ is in control with WI at 4-46 ATM. Go Kiwis!

Well, NZ are hanging tough. Now all we need to do to avoid going to Kenya is beat South Africa at Wanderers.

Correction, a Jonty-less RSA!

Good win to the Kiwis. Could be the start of something big. I'd love to se them beat the South Africans on Sunday and knock them out of the tournament. That Pool has certainly opened up and it's be anyone's guess which 3 will make it.

As for the Latif issue, I'm glad he's reconsidered sueing the Aussies. I thought it ws a joke when I first heard that. I'd just like to see all these little controversies disappear so we can focus on the good cricket being played.

Originally posted by Matt P
Good win to the Kiwis. Could be the start of something big. I'd love to se them beat the South Africans on Sunday and knock them out of the tournament. That Pool has certainly opened up and it's be anyone's guess which 3 will make it.

As for the Latif issue, I'm glad he's reconsidered sueing the Aussies. I thought it ws a joke when I first heard that. I'd just like to see all these little controversies disappear so we can focus on the good cricket being played.

Indeed.

And indeed again. It'd be nice for to read in the papers more about the actual cricket than all the hoo-hah surrounding it.
And what about old Chamindar? Pretty impressive opening over, despite the fact that it's only Bangladesh. Mind you, they did well to push on to 124 all out, even if that was on 30 overs.:crazyeye:

What went on with the Kiwi-SA game? How the hell do they work out the amended target? Don't get me wrong, the Kiwi's would've made the runs anyway, Flemmo's a freak, but there has to be something wrong with the system. What if it rains in the final and the team batting second gets handed the cup? Even a side like Equatorial Guinea could beat Aust with that sort of gorilla maths.

I hope and pray to whatever god there is up there, that South Africa loses to the Tea Growers and not even make the super six. They are an overated, unpredictable, bunch of cross-bat swingers who couldn't use team work to get out of a wet paper bag (and yes, that is a textbook case of sour grapes!)

I didn't watch all of that NZ-SAF game last night (I have to get some sleep sometime) but that revised target of something like 40 off 50 was always going to be a walk in the park for the Kiwis. If they had of only allowed them 2 wickets in hand, then we would have got a really interesting game.

The D-L method is flawed, but so too were other methods previously used (I remember Australia getting dudded against the Windies in a WSC Final in 88-89 after scoring about 270 odd) and I don't know what the answer is. The only way Australia won't win the cup seems to be if Duckworth-Lewis get involved and hand the game over to another side.

I just the hope stays away for the remaining 4-5 weeks.

Great win by the Kiwis though. Can Sri Lanka please knock over South Africa ? :)

Originally posted by Matt P

I just the hope stays away for the remaining 4-5 weeks.


Sorry, that should say I just hope the rain stays away for the remaining 4-5 weeks.

The DL system is about a dillion times better than any previous systems, especially the first one. I remember South Africa being all over the Kiwis in 94-95 then having to come out and score 44 in 1 over after rain! I reckon there has to be some way of incorporating wickets in there. Would've made no difference to the sheep rooters cause they played too well, but you could deduct wickets per unit time perhaps...

Either way, i want it to rain once more this tournament... when the Proteas play one of the minnows. Any sharing of points in one of those games and Shaun Pollock will be watching the semis from one of the the best seats money can buy.

Wish the sheep shaggers were playing in Kenya, i would like to see how far they could go, as long as we didn't have to play the bastards!

Bad luck to Jonty Rhodes, one of the only likeable South Africans to put the pads on, oh, and Pat Symcox!

Is England in this tournament??

True, the D-L system is better than the previous systems and I think you're right about reducing the amount of wickets in hand. You'd still have the problem with doing that because if a team was only allowed 3 wickets left in a run chase, they'd simply choose their best 3 batsmen and would have an advantage over a team that had 6 wickets in hand chasing a larger score yet had 3 tailenders left.

I'd prefer to see the South Africans either lose to Sri Lanka or Sri Lanka beat the Windies to see South Africa miss out then see rain kick them out, but either way if Sth Africa weren't there, that'd be a Mastercard moment. Priceless.

They must be under a huge amount of pressure but let's face it - they've simply been outplayed by 2 teams who played very well on the day. That's what sport is about - if a team outplays you they deserve to win, and the Kiwis and Windies both deserved their victories. Sth Africa does need a miracle, but if they were to make it thru to the Super 6, then watch out, they could get on a roll and emulate Australia's performance of 1999. Then again, there isn't any Steve Waugh or Shane Warne in their side and they wouldn't have to play themselves in a semi final.

Some interesting games to come that's for sure.

sheep rooters
sheep shaggers

:mad: Your Momma,

Atleast New Zealands wining at somthing not like the Americas cup. Now that New Zealands beat RSA will we still have to play(give up) Kenya?

I meant those names in an affectionate way :)

I want to see the Black Caps go far in the tournament cause i think they're one of the finest one day outfits led by one of the greatest captains to ever play for them, i just think you all shag sheep, thats all. As for the America's cup, haven't you had that for years anyway? Time to give someone else a go at holding it up.

Who cares if RSA make the super 6, they wouldn't make the semis, with or without Kallis and Gibbs going crazy.

Go the Aussies, and the Kiwis, we want this cup to stay this side of the Indian Ocean!

Originally posted by Bose
Go the Aussies, and the Kiwis, we want this cup to stay this side of the Indian Ocean!
I wouldn't go that far. I want the trophy to be back in the ACB trophy cabinet, and to remain there for 4 more years.
:)

Bloody rain, now RSA are a chance to actually make it. Lets hope it rains in one of their games...

Yeah, I watched the Bangladesh innings until the rain came, and I went to bed hoping they'd come back out and at least get to 25 overs. But it wasn't to be.

The door may have opened a little for the Proteas but a loss to Sri Lanka means sayonara, au revoir, thanks for coming.

I'll be cheering for the little Sri Lunkuns against Sth Africa.

I don't reckon they will beat them. To beat Sri Lanka you have to bowl them out, as they will always score at 6 an over, then bowl annoying spin at you all day. RSA don't have the bowlers we do, and i don't reckon they can bowl Sri Lanka out. I reckon the Windies will struggle as well.

Originally posted by Bose
I meant those names in an affectionate way :)

I want to see the Black Caps go far in the tournament cause i think they're one of the finest one day outfits led by one of the greatest captains to ever play for them, i just think you all shag sheep, thats all. As for the America's cup, haven't you had that for years anyway? Time to give someone else a go at holding it up.

Who cares if RSA make the super 6, they wouldn't make the semis, with or without Kallis and Gibbs going crazy.

Go the Aussies, and the Kiwis, we want this cup to stay this side of the Indian Ocean!

But the guys racing the other boat in the Americas Cup are Kiwi traitors!! Losing is not an option! Anyway the Yanks kept it for over half a century, we've got a fair way to go yet to beat that.

Hey Randy_Campbell, good to see a fellow Wainuiomartian! :goodjob:

So the Swiss team are all ex-pet Kiwis? Bugger that, traitors! I thought something was up when a land-locked country starts winning sailing races... kinda like us winning gold at the Winter Olympics, hang on, we did (twas a farce though young Steven)

Yeah, we actually won TWO gold medals. How is that possible ?

Originally posted by Bose
So the Swiss team are all ex-pet Kiwis? Bugger that, traitors! I thought something was up when a land-locked country starts winning sailing races... kinda like us winning gold at the Winter Olympics, hang on, we did (twas a farce though young Steven)

The skipper and tactician on the Swiss boat were the skipper and tactician on New Zealands victory and subsequent successful defence of the Cup. A boat designer also went with them, as well as other former Team New Zealand crew members.

Bit of in-house fighting over there in the land of the long white sheeps-bum?

Something like that

Good, solid win by the Aussies overnight. I think they got the Duckworth-Lewis system all wrong and should have scored more in their innings and not worried about losing wickets, but they still had enough runs spare.

I've never seen a team bowl 25 overs faster than the Aussies did last night.

I think Punta was just happy to get a few balls bowled to Martyn & Shrek. If there wasn't so much rain, i think you would've seen one of them play an 'accidental' bad shot so Bevo could get some time in the middle.

Bevo will get some time in the middle against the Zimbabweans and the Namibians next week. It is a worry though if the bastmen aren't getting enough hits. They could be really under the pump when it comes to the Super 6's.

I think the only teams that can upset the Aussies are Sri Lanka and New Zealand. Thats because they are probably the only 2 teams not intimidated by us. Don't get me wrong though- the Aussies will win without losing a game.
Sticks Mc Grath has had a quiet sart to the tournament so I'm waiting for him to fire in the big games. I reckon Ponting, Lehman and Bevan will be our key batsmen of the tournament. Because of these 'ring in' sides all the other test playing nations will not be getting enough batting experience either (except for the poms hahahah).
We don't need Warne to win- Australia doesn't need him full stop!

I must admit, I find the esteem that my New Zealand team is held in in these forums to be humbling in the least. :)

Of course Australia are quaking in their boots to face us, we gave them a lesson in cricket on their grounds last summer....but then again, South Africa gave us a lesson, and then we beat South Africa D-L.

New Zealand could be one of the best teams in the world if we had one thing: Consistency.

One of you made the point that our batsmen have to fire simutaneously, well that's just it. Fleming played the best knock of his career to get that 130 odd, and besides a good support from Astle before the rain, it would have been interesting to see how the others helped out.

Too often in ODI's the Black Caps falter and get low totals, it's reflected in our averages. The only real consistent batters we have are Fleming, Astle and Cairns.

Our bowling is also something we need to get right and consistent otherwise we won't be a force at Super 6. Bond gave the Aussies and the Saf's nightmares last summer, but he hasn't hit his straps in this tournament yet, and it's showing in our bowling line up. I think the line up reject Chris Harris and Daniel Vettori, one of New Zealands' best bowlers, will have a more positive impact on this world cup for us.

New Zealand does have a good bowling attack but we don't take 10 wickets in a match, which is what you need to win. Some of these South African pitches are giving away too many runs to rely on tight bowling. Bond, Adams and Cairsn can be expensive, but do take the wickets. have them open and tie them down with harris and Vettori, maybe Astle.

Can't think of anymore to rant right now, it's late.

ps - i think the final will be Aussie and South Africa, but as its been said, anyone can win on any given day, and at the Super 6's, it's anyone's tournament.

I'd agree that NZ need that consistency to become a great side not just the good side they are at the moment. I'm still not sure about their batsmen as a whole - when they beat the Aussies 3 from 4 last summer they did it with small totals and simply bowled us out more often than not. Some of their players (such as Fleming) need to produce consistent big scores in order for the team to be a major threat. They do have enough quality with a few of their bowlers and some good fielding to make it difficult for an opposition to score large totals.

NZ did have the edge last summer but the Australian side has had a major overhaul since then (no Waughs, now no Warne) and our batting is stronger and with Gillespie fully fit, the bowling attack is the strongest it's been for a while. But even in saying that, I'd rather the Aussies not have to play the Kiwis in a semi or even in the final as I wouldn't be completely confident we'd win.

I think Sri Lanka are looking good at the moment, but let's face it - They haven't been fully stretched yet by a side who's tested their batsmen on the bouncy wickets. The Kiwis didn't bowl well against them and Canada and Bangladesh aren't powerhouses. We'll see how good Sri Lanka actually are in the next week. Remember they only beat the Aussies and English once (I think) in 8 games in the recent VB Series.

I hope the rain stays away from Bulawayo tonight for the Aus-Zim game.

Originally posted by Matt P

I think Sri Lanka are looking good at the moment

I don't :p

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport3/cwc2003/hi/newsid_2790000/newsid_2793200/2793279.stm

Group B, Nairobi, Kenya 210-9 (50 overs) bt Sri Lanka 157 all out (44.5 overs) by 53 runs

What a victory. If underdogs can win matches like that there's hope for we English yet :D

Originally posted by Matt P
I think Sri Lanka are looking good at the moment
I'd like to change that to read Kenya look good at the moment. :D

Originally posted by Matt P

I'd like to change that to read Kenya look good at the moment. :D

After 16 matches from each pool gone, Kenya do look good. With two matches to go they look almost certain to make the Super Six stage. You'd expect them to beat Bangladesh, giving them 4 wins for the tournament, probably enough to go through, leaving room for just two other teams.

The most vital game in Pool B to follow would probably be Sri Lanka v West Indies tonight. A win to Sri Lanka, and they're through while the Windies wouls most likely miss out, while a win to the West Indies would probably get them through with a match against Kenya to go, while Sri Lanka plays South Africa coming back to form. New Zealand is still a strong chance with just having to play Canada (possibly a NRR booster for them).

In the other Pool (Pool A) it is almost settled. After Australia's record demolition of Namibia, they're crtainties, while an out of form India are also almost through, though an England upset over Australia could change the whole complexion of things in the pool. Still a race between four teams for the final two spots in the pool.

After all that though, there is no doubt that Australia have been the dominant team of the competition thus far. They've been able to turn it on when they need to, and have been able to dismiss teams, something you need to do in one day cricket if you want to win. They're still going to be hard to beat come finals time.

How bout the Biro! (that's Bichel). The man is this decade's answer to Damien Fleming. I think the selectors will be a bit glad the Gillespie is still injured cause A) you can't drop Bichel after a performance like that, B) You can't drop Lee after bowling at 160.6 km/h, and C) You can't drop McGrath. Wonder if they're thinking of playing any of the super 6 games with 4 quicks, Hogg, and dropping Martyn...

Indeed that is a thought, depending upon the pitch and the opposition.
It is a path that must be trod carefully though, shortening a batting line up. Martyn is not in the best nick at the moment, yet he may be needed as a batsman. It is a measure of the depth of the side that Bichel can come in and do what he did.

True. I'm a big Martyn fan and i would hate to see him go. Just an idea, alot of the RSA pitches love the seam, especially the coastal grounds. I liked Martyn better at 6. Bevo's good at 5, wouldn't mind seeing Symons get another go up the order, he looks good when he's not in a hurry.

God, I don't think a cricket match has depressed me so much for a long time. :ack:

If we cannot beat the Australians from that position, we never will. Bichel and Bevan are obviously great players, but to let such a position to slip like we did is just terrible. Where's Gough when you need him? In the Sky Sports studios :ack:

Still, it was nice to see Flintoff get another good score, and at least Trescothick showed some semblence of form.

Your boys looked good but just couldn't close the deal.

The RSA boys are out, thanx to the good 'ol D&L system. Good enough for them too. Now they might realise how one dimensional they really are. It'll be painful for them to watch Ricky Ponting or Sourav Ganguly raise the cup...

Bye Bye South Africa. Now you can sit back and take notes on how you should play one day cricket. I'd love to see Kenya get thru to the semis now and make things even more embarassing for South Africa.

What a shame Sth Africa. And it couldn't happen to a nicer team :rolleyes:

Well Kenya 'beat' both NZ and Sri Lanka so they take 10 points thru to the Super 6 (11 if they beat WI tonight). With Sri Lanka only taking 6 through and NZ only 4, all Kenya need is an upset, or a rained out match and another result their way and they're thru...

Kenya's only chance wil be against the 3rd placed team in Australia's pool. I can't see Kenya beating the Aussies or Indians. They could beat England/Zimbabwe though. The pressure will be on the Kiwis to win at least 2, maybe 3 games to qualify for the semis.

I hate to do this, but i'm actually going to give the Poms some credit... The Kenyans haven't got a snowball's chance in hell of beating England, and not much more of a chance of beating the Zimbos, unless they get the Flower Bros out for zip. I reckon they could get a washed out game though...

Well rain has washed out the Pakistan v Zimbabwe game so England are out. That's no great surprise but I must say this World Cup has been spoilt by teams defaulting for political reasons, the extreme effects of winning the toss on day/night games and now the vagaries of Duckworth-Lewis on rain affected games with no provision to extend to another day.

Obviously none of this will affect Australia as eventual champions but it has spoilt much of the competition for me so far.

Yes, for me too.

Frankly, we didn't deserve to qualify. I wonder for how long Hussein will stay at the helm.

Bit harsh... I reckon England did deserve to qualify. You's scored 200 against one of the besr attacks in the game and defended it well.

I'm with you though Col, there has to be some provision for a rained out game to be played the next day, especially considering there were mostly only one game per day throughout the tournament.

I would like to think it will be easy for the Aussies from here, but y'know this game... we'll probably get beaten in the semi's when we lose the toss at St Georges and have to chase on a horror wicket

You're right Col. Events such as rain, the two forfeits by the Kiwis and England and the day-night games being virtually won by the toss of a coin have majorly affected the tournament and lessened the enjoyability of watching it. This (to my memory) was a lot different to 99 where cricket games were all that were talked about and headlines were more about the bad start by the Aussies, the Pakis loss to Bangladesh and England's inability to make it to the Super 6.

I guess some things in that respect never change ;)

Even though some of the big guns have been knocked out, I hope from now on the controversies are at an end and we get some exciting games. I hope the rain stays away for the rest of the tournament so the D-L system doesn't come into play.

Just looking at the Super 6, it does seem a bit off that Kenya and Zimbabwe only qualified due to 2 teams forfeiting their games against them. I think both are just making up the numbers but with 10 points carried into the Super 6, Kenya might get thru even without winning a game. Zimbabwe won't go anywhere so the real interest is whether the Kiwis can make it with only 4 carry over points.

I hope for the Aussies sake, the Kiwis just miss out on the semis :)

Same, full respect for the Kiwis... the bastards know how to beat us!

Barring rain, there's no team left that Kenya can beat. They probably only beat SL cause all the players got good odds on the tote! My semi-final make up is:

Australia
India
Sri Lanka
Kenya (with rain) NZ (without rain)

Only one team there that can beat the Aussies, and they lie just off our Eastern Sea Board

I'd say the Kenyans will be doing a few rain dances for the next couple of weeks. That's their only chance to make it through.

Why don't they just hold the WC here in outback NSW... theres about as much chance of rain here as there is England winning the Ashes while Elton John is alive.

Well, Hussein has stepped down for one-dayers. Can't say I'm surprised.

My tip for the cup: Kenya. :yeah:

theres about as much chance of rain here as there is England winning the Ashes while Elton John is alive. So you are saying that if we kill Elton John we shall win the ashes. That seems fair to me.

That seems very fair. I'd kill Elton John just to have a chance of winning one Ashes Test Match :yeah:

Just hand over the Ashes urn and suddenly you might have some motivation to win it. Simple really.

Here here. Dead Elton or no dead Elton, the urn should come back across the Indian Ocean!

Pity about Nasser, who are they gunna put in his place? Trescothick?

Originally posted by Bose
Here here. Dead Elton or no dead Elton, the urn should come back across the Indian Ocean!

Pity about Nasser, who are they gunna put in his place? Trescothick?

I think the logical choice would be Vaughn. He's a class batsman who looks likely to play for the Poms for the next 10 years. The only problem with that would be the extra pressure put on him as captain, could reduce his batting performances. Though it never did S.Waugh (or A. Border) any harm.

Go Aussies in the Super Six. Probably have enough points already to make the Semis, without having to win a Super Six match.
Bad luck to "Dizzy" Gillespie. :cry: He's had his fair share of injuries and this is just another setback for him. Hope he gets to fly back to celebrate with his team-mates when they hold the cup aloft. :D

Yeah, but Waugh and Border were much longer in the tooth than Vaughn is. I think Trescothick is the logical choice, he has a good cricket brain and the patience that is needed to captain the poms.

You English lads can help me here... Does where you come from have any unofficial influence on choosing an England captain?

The best way to keep Vaughan as good as he is is to keep him far away from the captaincy role. It seems to be a poison chalice.

Dizzy is such an unlucky player - I was hoping he'd be able to experience the thrill of winning a WC after being injured so many times. I hope Bichel and Bracken step up to the mark now.

Keep Vaughan were he is. Just cause he's making the most runs doesn't mean he should be captain.

I'm not rubbishing Dizzy, but i've always wondered... when did he become this indispensible part of our team? I can see why McGrath is the first name down on our team sheet, but Gillespie takes nowhere near the wickets, yet always seems to be picked as soon as he's fit. I reckon he's a great bowler, but i'm just interested in what you think...

Gillespie is a bowler who bowls well consistently, makes opposition players play and miss, yet the other bowlers (McGrath & Warne) get the wickets. He bowled incredibly well in India in 2001 yet hardly took any wickets.

I'm a big fan of Gillespie and I hope he's around a few more years because if he is and McGrath and Warne aren't there, he'll start taking big wicket hauls and improve his stats.

I just worked something out... Our last Super 6's game is against Kenya right? They only need 1 win to get fourth place, and i can't see them beating Zim or India. All things being equal, the situation could arise that if we throw the Kenya game, they would snatch fourth place and play in the semis against... us. That might seem a bit like science fiction, but think about it... would you rather play Kenya in a semi or the Kiwis? It would be the second time in two WC's that we play differently to keep the Kiwis out! The only thing would be that we cannot under any circumstance lose top spot, as the 2nd v 3rd semi is the D/N game which will probably be decided by the toss.

Interesting...

Congrats on ur 100th post too!

Originally posted by Bose
Congrats on ur 100th post too! Thanks ! It didn't really seem to take all that long. I think my output at work hasn't been too high since I joined as a member ;)

Playing Kenya is a whole lot more appealing than the Kiwis that's for sure. I wouldn't like to see the Aussies ever try it, although I suppose they could reverse the batting and bowling order and give Kenya a chance. Maybe it'd rain and the D-L system could give Kenya a chance.

In saying that, I'd rather the Aussies play the Kiwis and lose to them in a semi than ever lose to Kenya. That'd be embarassing. :eek:

I'd rather see them lose to Kenya and win the whole damn thing than lose to the Kiwis in the semi. Australian cricket would take a massive rep hit though!

Originally posted by Bose
I'd rather see them lose to Kenya and win the whole damn thing than lose to the Kiwis in the semi. Australian cricket would take a massive rep hit though! :D :goodjob: :lol: :p [party] hope fully those have conveyed my message take note I am a kiwi:p

Originally posted by Bose
I'd rather see them lose to Kenya and win the whole damn thing than lose to the Kiwis in the semi. Australian cricket would take a massive rep hit though! Losing to the Kiwis would be bad. Then again, losing to them in anything is pretty bad.

No offence to the Kiwis out there :)

Originally posted by Matt P
Losing to the Kiwis would be bad. Then again, losing to them in anything is pretty bad.


I was going to say losing to us must be worse, but then I realised how absurd that sounded...

Originally posted by Matt P
Losing to the Kiwis would be bad. Then again, losing to them in anything is pretty bad.

No offence to the Kiwis out there :)

Of course Australia fear NZ, us Kiwi's made the mighty Australians our *****es in the VB series last year.

No offence to any Aussies... :goodjob:

We had a different team last year. This Aussie side is a better side I believe (even without Warne and Gillespie) but the Kiwis will test us as they don't fear us.

It'll be a very interesting game on Tuesday.

I just realised how the Poms must feel when we start gloating to them about sport. Give the Kiwis a bit of a rap, then watch them take the ball and run with it, just like us Aussies!

I'll be a bit more honest... they are a good side, but they are really just a bunch of all-rounders. They're one of those teams that can beat anyone on their day, but their day only comes around once in a blue moon. We'll see who has bragging rights tomorrow night!

If the Kiwis miss out on the semis (a possibility if they lose both their remaining games) then the only thing that would deny the Aussies the trophy would be a Tendulkar 150 in the final. You could write off the other sides, especially if Jayasuriya isn't right for the Sri Lankans.

The Kiwi bowlers took some severe stick from the lower order Zimbabwe batsmen, so there sems to be a weak link with some of their bowling. If they bowl the same sort of garbage tomorrow, they better start planning for the Indian game, cause the Aussie game will be a lost cause.

It wont matter if he does make 150 in the final, the rest of the team can't bat against Aust unless its a pitch made of pure dust (which it wont be). So, barring something bizarre happening...

Well, there goes New Zealand, thrashed. :D
We even contrived to give them a chance, and set only 208.
Bowled out for 112, with Brett Lee taking 5/42, including an awesome wrapping up of the tail.

Now to thrash the Kenyans, beat whoever in the semi final, and then win the final. :D

A Kiwi batsman, an Aussie batsman, Santa Claus, and the Tooth Fairy all jump off a cliff at the same time... who hits the ground first?

The Aussie batsman. The rest are ficticious characters

Originally posted by Bose
A Kiwi batsman, an Aussie batsman, Santa Claus, and the Tooth Fairy all jump off a cliff at the same time... who hits the ground first?

The Aussie batsman. The rest are ficticious characters :lol: Harsh but probably fair.

I couldn't believe the Aussies got out of that one. I didn't see how well Bond bowled but to take 6-23 against the Aussies he must have bowled very well.

Can India beat the Kiwis and Sri Lanka beat Zimbabwe which would knock out NZ ? The Kiwis may have blown their chance.

I also missed Bond's bowling as i was attending the worst circus ever (if La Circosta comes to Bris Vegas Matt, DON'T GO). I did however see the start of the Kiwi chase, but fell asleep just as Cairns was caught at 3rd man... i would've given anything to see that capitulation.

Surely the tea growers can win one for us, and India should account for the sheep shaggers, but in this WC who knows...

I don't know what would have been worse - the Kiwis ripping apart the Aussie batting order, or watching a circus. For a while last night, they appeared to be the same thing. :)

Who do u reckon we'll be playing in the semi? My money's on Sri Lanka for some reason... they can play better than they have lately

I'm hoping it's Kenya, so that means we're guaranteed a final berth. If the Kiwis lose to the Indians and Zimbabwe beats Kenya, then it could happen. Based on the favourites winning, Sri Lanka or Zimbabwe will get 3rd and kenya 4th. I 'm not sure who'll win the Sri Lanka-Zimbabwe game - they're both out of form at the moment.

India-Australia final is on the cards.

I'll be putting my money on SL. Although i think a Ind-Aust final in a foregone conclusion. I can't really see India beating us either, especially after the mauling they copped when we met them in the Pool A matches.

It still feels good to have thrashed the sheep rooters!

Originally posted by Matt P
India-Australia final is on the cards.

Have to agree with you here Matt.

I can't really see any other teams with a chance of making it. They have clearly been the best two teams of the tournament so far. India's only loss was to a rampant Aussie team.

Sri Lanka are out of form at the moment and their best player (Jayasuria) will be still struggling because of the injury sustained from Brett Lee.
New Zealand are still a chance to make the final, but will they actually make it through to the semis. A win over India and they're certainties (and they would then deserve to make it), but a loss and it comes down to other teams winning or losing. They can still fire, but for a full game?
Kenya are still a chance to make the semis with a win over Zimbabwe (I can't see them beating the Aussies, but rain could help them). What they do when they get there is another story. Up against Australia or India in the Semis is a tough ask.
Zimbabwe could still make the semis, especially if they beat the tea-growers, but with a depleted line-up will really struggle against the Aussies or the Cow-lovers.

Well, Zimbabwe are stuffed... they can't make it through anymore. Looks like we play NZ if they can beat India, or SL if they beat the Zimbo's and NZ lose to India. I'm tipping the latter, NZ don't have the bowlers to go through a team that has Tendulkar and two other bats that avarage more than 50 in tests...

I never thought I'd see the day when Kenya would make the WC semis. Just goes to show how much teams like Sth Africa, Pakistan, England and West Indies underperformed.

India should walk into the final now. Well done to Kenya, but India shouldn't lose that semi. No matter whether it's SL or NZ, the semi at Port Elizabeth won't be easy for the Aussies with the pitch being so slow. The Aussies have to endeavour to bat a whole lot better if they want to make sure of winning it.

Please don't let them put Harvey in for the semi... we need Symmonds' batting, not another specialist bowler, which is all Harvey is at the moment

I wouldnt rule Kenya out of the final. They play India in a day/night game in the semi. The toss will be crucual. Kenya have enough good batsmem to post a score and a good enough attack to take out India under lights. They thumped Zimbabwe.

I think this one will come down to who wins the toss.

I hope India wain. An Australia India would be great. An Australia Kenya final would just be too predictable.

True. After the farce that was the 1999 final, we don't need another $1.20 favourite in the decider.

I guess a lot will come down to the toss in the Semi, but i think you'll agree that India is a far far superior side to Zimbabwe. They're not as hot-n-cold as the other sub-continent teams, and i think they will easily account for Kenya. It's great they've got as far as they have, but now they start playing real teams.

Don't get me wrong. Kenya can beat India and they did push India in their Super 6 game, but Kenya would have to play out of their skins to get past an Indian side that has their batsmen firing and their bowlers in great form. Kenya can't win chasing, so as you said Col, they would have to bat first, make 220 or so then get early wickets to be a chance.

Bose, as for an Australia-Kenya final, I'd think on a bouncy Jo-burg track, Australia would be $1.05 to beat Kenya. I'd still think that'd be generous.

Still better than bank interest Matt...

Tonight is crunch time for the Black Caps. After blitzing India 5-2 in the pre-world cup series, we have every reason to fell confident but this could be negated by the great form of the Indian batsmen and the good batting track, a far cry from the green wickets of home.

I predict NBZ will win and set up a revenge match with Australia in Port Elizabeth. I feel Scott Styris could well be the man tonight. Go NZ!

...um...if not...GO ZIMBABWE!

And big respect to Andy Flower! A great carrer comes to a sad and unfitting end. I don't think anyone fully realises just how good he was. He never even got to face the Zimbabwean attack!

Originally posted by lord_byron_nz
I predict NBZ will win and set up a revenge match with Australia in Port Elizabeth. I feel Scott Styris could well be the man tonight. Go NZ!

...um...if not...GO ZIMBABWE! Well, it looks like it'll be Zimbabwe to help the Kiwis out now. It's amazing the Kiwis could be out considering they had the Aussies on the rack and were probably one wicket away from being in the semis.

If they don't make it, it just helps the Aussies chances even more. Don't mind that :D

And NZ are out.

Let the fallout begin.

I know you for one feel strongly in favour for the Kiwis not playing in Kenya lord_byron, but they let politics into it when they shouldn't have, and it's the only reason they're not playing us tomorrow night. It would've been great to see an Aust-NZ semi, and it would've guarranteed a southern hemisphere team in the final, but as it is, we'll have to beat the tea growers... which i suspect is exactly what will happen.

It's pretty amazing who the semi-finalists are considering the form of three of them a few months ago.
By all rights, it should be an Australia-India final considering they've been the two form teams of the tournament. But, there have been upsets and you can't be sure about anything.

Don't you like how us Aussies wont just say what we're thinking just so we wont have to eat our words later on!!

Well, here goes: We will beat Sri Lanka by 115 runs, or 8 wickets, depends on who wins the toss. They are clearly outmatched in all departments, and have no hope.

As for the Final: India are sh*t scared of Brett Lee. He is bowling with the form of his life and will have to try hard not to get 4 wickets. Tendulkar may very well get a half century, but i don't see any VVS Laxman in the side, so they will surprise the crap out of me if they get over 220. India also have the bowling depth of a dropped pie. They invoke absolutely no fear into our batsmen, and will be hit out of the park accordingly.

India know that they have been playing for second place all along, as does everyone else. This game is 80% mental, and they are beaten even before they walk on the park, as Pakistan was 4 years ago.

I'm sorry to be so cocky, but i just had to say it! In the highly unlikely event of us not winning the whole thing, please feel free to ban me from ever having any opinion on cricket ever again in these forums.

I hope you're 100% right with your prediction Bose. I'm not game to make any predictions yet about the final - I'll cheer for the Aussies on Tuesday and hope they get past the spin of Murali and co. If it is an Aus-India final, the Indians will surely know what to expect from our bowlers - chin music galore. Brett Lee in form with McGrath and Bichel will severely test them.

Here's hoping we get the chance to see it.

You have nothing to fear my Queenslandish friend. In the event of Sri Lanka even turning up, they have as much chance of winning as the Liberals have of getting power in QLD. Brett Lee is the fastest bowler in the world, and Bichel is the best bowler the world has ever seen. They will die a terrible terrible death.

By the way, bad luck in the Pura Cup final! You were beaten by the second best batting line-up in the world, and the most maligned leg spinner to ever tweak a ball... go the Blues!!!

On Kenya, NZ took a stand and stood by it. I have no problem with that. There was no dithering and no one would have guessed that Kenya would've beaten Sri Lanka. Frankly, I think the ICC failed to recognise that the New Zealand team have been shockingly close to a number of terrorist actions and, just perhaps, had reason not to want to put themselves in another situation like that. 'nuf said.

Only two players can stop the Aussies winning the thing. Jayasuria and Tendulker. If either play all time great innings as they can very well do, Australia could be in trouble. Both are the only batsmen of their nation who do not fear the Aussie bowlers and, Tendulker especially, will want to leave a huge stamp on this tournament.

Bichel is the best bowler the world has ever seen

:confused:

I completely forgot about what the Kiwi cricketers have been through, and will fully retract my earlier statement about them not playing in Kenya. Some things are alot more important than cricket... like life. the ICC should've taken past events in mind when dealing with that.

I don't think Jayasuria will be champing at the bit to face Lee again somehow...

I was joking about Bichel, i just think he's a bloody legend!

Originally posted by Bose
By the way, bad luck in the Pura Cup final! You were beaten by the second best batting line-up in the world, and the most maligned leg spinner to ever tweak a ball... go the Blues!!! This might actually shock you, but I'm actually a bluebag who has just happened to live up here in QLD for what seems like forever. I was cheering the Blues to victory at the Gabba and it was enjoyable to watch them knock over the Bulls in their own den. Victory in 3 days was a bit unexpected but it could have been in 2 had QLD not got past the follow-on mark.

Just as a side note, it was disappointing Michael Clarke didn't make the Windies tour squad. He's got plenty of time up his sleeve yet though.

Did you watch it live? WOuld've been a great game to go see. Yeah, Clarke was unlucky, but his time will come.

How about Smith Captaining the Proteas now... dangerous move. Then again, they wouldn't do it for no reason... perhaps they want someone in there for a long time.

The Aussies easily tonight

They obviously have a lot of faith in Smith to make him captain at such an early age. It 's got to be one of the biggest captaincy gambles I've ever seen. It's not like he's been around several years from an early age and has experience on his side.

Maybe he's just finished a degree in Mathematics and they decided he was the best qualified man to read and understand the Duckworth-Lewis system.

I've got the feeling tonight's game for the Aussies could be tougher than the final. A slow low wicket, Murali, Jayasuriya, no Martyn, the batsmen unable to play spin all that convincingly - it all points to a tough, low scoring game that could go to the wire.

I hope Matty Hayden can find his touch again as he seems to have lost his way in the tournament.

Ah, have some faith! Apart from Jayasuria and Attapattu noone else has even made 50 in this tournament. We will prevail!

Lets just hope it doesn't rain...

Lets hope Australia gets to bat first as well. Lets hope there are no more Australian top and middle order collapses again. One day our luck is going to run out.
Matty Hayden and Glen Mc Grath are going to be the heroes tonight- thats my tip. Bummer I have to work though.

Can't you watch and work, or even listen?

Just call in sick ....

Originally posted by rilnator
Lets hope Australia gets to bat first as well. Lets hope there are no more Australian top and middle order collapses again. One day our luck is going to run out.
Matty Hayden and Glen Mc Grath are going to be the heroes tonight- thats my tip. Bummer I have to work though.

fraid thats not luck mate thats what you call skill. if the top order collapses, the middle order will perform. it never fails. its because we have so many good batters and all our bowlers can bat (well except maybe for Mr. Mcgrath :D ) we better win tonite or i wont be happy.

Well, at present:

Sri Lanka: 16-0 (3 overs) v Australia 212-7 , with good work from Symonds being critical.

Looking interesting...

Not interesting any more - Sri lanka have collapsed against lee and co. 60 for 6. All over bar the shouting.

And now, de rain has come, and it seems we win anyway under Duckworth-Lewis. :yeah: Lee bowled very well, and the whole team sparkled.

Who else in the world would have walked? I don't call this chivalrous, i call it stupid. There is absolutely no way in hell any of those Sri Lankans would walk, and Gilly put the middle order under undue pressure. He's a Deniliquin boy and i love the bloke, but he should never have done that.

Bravo to Symonds for having a large set of minerals, and Lee for persisting on a sh*thouse deck. It's good to see our depth stand up for us again, but it shouldn't have to do it everytime we play someone half decent.

Congratulaions to the boys anyway, they played well and deserve the chance to play off for the cup.

Walking is chivalrous and always right and proper. :yeah:

Great win by the Aussies yet again :)

Symonds has finally reached his potential and yet again played a match winning knock. It's been a great tournament for him and Bichel. They've both stepped up when we've needed them.

Lee is the key to the final now. McGrath won't give much away but Lee is the bowler who could rip out India/Kenya in a heartbeat and put Australia in a winning position. I don't think anyone bowls a better yorker in world cricket than Lee.

As for the walking Gilchrist, well it was a nice gesture but I don't went to see him doing it in the final.

argh... all due credit should be given to Gilchrist, its about bloody time someone done that. :goodjob: and i never would of thought it would be an aussie! :D

What do you mean 'never thought it'd be an Aussie'? We are always chivalrous... we would never do anything untoward, like bowl underarm when the batsman needed a six to win the game, or bat slow to lift the run-rate of the West Ind, er, our opponents so as to push another team out of a competition...

I'll change my line from yesterday... he should have never done that against them, and not in a semi-final. I'll admit there are other players from other teams that might do it, but none of them are from bloody Sri Lanka!

Tell me pillager, what if Vaughn walked in the same situation then (heaven forbid) the rest of the batting order collapsed? I'll tell you what, he'd be crucified.

But as you said, good on him, takes a lot of guts and a truckload of conviction to do that, and hopefully it sets some sort of trend. Gilly said he'd do the same on Sunday if the situation arose... thats fine, just get a map and a one-way ticket for Madagaskar if we lost!

I'm happy with Gilly walking on Sunday if he's got 150 next to his name. I think Gilly needs to get his eyes and ears tested if he thinks he hit that ball of De Silva. I reckon he knew it was going to be Aravinda's last game so he thought he'd be nice and give him one last wicket for his career tally.

As for tonight's game, how much will India win by ?

2 wickets...

Contriversial, but if they lose the little master early (which they probably wont) then they tend to panic.

Originally posted by Bose

Tell me pillager, what if Vaughn walked in the same situation then (heaven forbid) the rest of the batting order collapsed? I'll tell you what, he'd be crucified.


I don't think he would. He'd receive praise for playing in the true spirit of the game, and would not be held responsible for the lack of talent in the rest of the team.

Mabey i have the wrong idea about the English press :p

I'll take your word for it, but i dunno...

So, Australia and India it is. It's the best final entertainment wise and might be the toughest test yet for the Aussies. I hope the Wanderers wicket is nice and bouncy and quick cause I'd love to see what Lee could do on that type of wicket.

The Indians have done well to bounce back to make the final and deserve to be there. But can they get past the Aussies who are chock full of confidence ? Can't wait to find out.

The system must work... the two teams that should be playing each other are. I really can't see the Indians batting through there 50 overs (I can hear you... Tendulkar, blah blah) so i can't see them getting too far past the right side of 250.

Our top order hasn't been working for their ticket of late, but barring Gilchrist bloody walking, we should outbat the Indians.

I hope Gilly leaves his charity in the dressing room on Sunday. I don't want to see any Aussies walking. Unless, it's around the stadium carrying the trophy after the game ....

Bloody Aussies. It'd be nice if players were still sufficiently honest and principled to walk as a matter of course, instead of it being a point of interest when it actually does happen. :p

I tell you what, if the choice had absolutely nothing to do with their livelihood, i reckon you would see a lot more people walking than you do.

If we had've lost the other day, you would see a lot less brand names willing to put their name on Adam Gilchrist, and his loss in marketability would've meant him making less money in the long run. For that reason, it's just not viable for a player in that situation to do that, not in the world cup.

I reckon it was a silly thing to do. Mabey yes against the Poms or the Kiwis, or some other team that would do the same thing in the same situation, but not the Sri Lankans. But that's just my opinion... good luck in the final boys, I'll be up till 4am watching them, as i'm sure Matt and ozscott will be...

Best of the Luck to the Aussies !!! I hope they get past the Indians and are crowned kings of the world again :king:

Should be a good final tonight. I apologise to all you Aussies out threre, but I'm cheering for India. I think some of the Indian players (Tendulker, Dravid and Shrinath in particular) deserve this win for consistently being the best in the world and having nothing to show for it yet. A century tonight will cement Sachins place amongst crickets greats and i'm hoping to see him in full flight.

I'm still picking an Aussie win though :)

And Australia score 359/2 off their 50 overs, with Ricky Ponting making 140 not out off 121 balls, including 8 sixes. Damien Martyn made 88 not out off 84, Adam Gilchrist provided a whirlwind beginning with 51 off 41, and Matthew Hayden hit a comparatively pedestrian 37 off 50 odd deliveries.
This was the highest team score in a World Cup Final, most sixes by an individual, highest team score at the ground and a host of other records.
With India having to make a world record 360 to win against McGrath, Lee, Bichel and Hogg, the odds seem slightly in favour of an Australian victory.
One looks forward to the second innings.

Let me be the first to congratulate Mr. Darkshade, Matt P, Bose and whoever else on their World Cup triumph and remind them of the 2001/2002 VB series and a man called Shane Bond.

And what the feck has that got to do with the price of Indian slaves? :ack:
He is not playing; NZ beat Australia on several occasions then, and they were kept out of the finals using the bonus point manipulation. That was then. This is now. We have beaten NZ, and beaten everyone else, and just posted a world record score which puts us as ever so slight favourites to win this one. :p

I know, I know! I even congratulated you on winning the damn thing! :)

Um...for the record, you beat us once on that tour. Not "several" times. ;)

Indeed.

And the formalities are complete, with Australia blasting India oot for 234, and winning the 2003 World Cup by 125 runs. We are the champions! :D :mwaha:

Woohoo [dance] :beer:

What a great night for Aussies, what a great night for cricket fans, what a great night for the entire human race :yeah:

Congrats to all the Aussie boys for a fantastic effort to win the cup they deserved all along. No other team deserved to win it and they were able to overcome the huge favouritism tag and win back to back titles. Considering they had no Waughs, no Warne, no Watson and no Gillespie, this was an incredible effort to go through undefeated.

Well done boys. :goodjob: Let's now make it a clean sweep in the Windies and retain the Test trophy too.

I think today should have been made a public holiday :)

Originally posted by Matt P
Woohoo [dance] :beer:

I think today should have been made a public holiday :)

Certainly should be. Would've given me a chance to get some sleep before I left for work. Oh well, I'm sure I've got my priorities right by watching the Aussies win the Cup rather than getting rest before a hard days work. :crazyeye:

Anyway, congrats to the marvellous Aussie Team, reigning World Cup kings :king:. What a magnificent performance. A World Cup win by 125 runs. Just goes to show how much better this current Aussie team is compared to the rest of the world. Without two of the best four bowlers in the side and the Waughs (who would no doubt still arguably make the best 11 for most teams), they were still able to lift the trophy.

i must admit, it sure was a hell of a first innings.

congratulations, although i doubt i'll ever hear the end of it from my boss singing "....we are the champions..."!!! :crazyeye:

Congratulations to the Aussies; a more deserving victory I have not seen in a long time.

Until the Caribbean. :yeah:

No doubt at all about it - the best team won.
And - lets face it, Australia are the best by some distance.
Best batting
Best bowling
Best fielding.

Now I shall go away to cry quietly and dream of the future.....

Best Batting and Bowling? Yes, undoubetdly.

I'd question wether they are the best fielding team, however. No prizes for guessing whi I think is no. 1 in this category ;)

Well done boys. You said before the game you were after the perfect game, and apart from Hogg's usual dropped catch, and a couple of others it pretty much was. In hindsight it was a pity it wasn't closer but at the time it was close enough for this little black duck's liking!

Lord_Byron, ur boys played well last season over here but remember it was only weather that stopped us sweeping you 3-zip in the tests, as for the one-dayers...

Bring on the Windies, though i think they are slowly getting back to being competetive so it shouldn't be that one sided.

Punter: You're a legend. 140 not out, 8 sixes, you made that Melbourne Bitter taste 4 times better on Sunday night! You'll be test captain in 6 months, can't wait (no offence Tugga!)

Martyn: Sorry i bagged you right out, but you still are the most boring batter to watch in the one-day side... but great work!

LB: are you implying NZ are the best fielding team? Please tell me you are so i can prepare for laughter... (nah, they are actually pretty good)

Now with the World Cup over, I can finally get some sleep ..... for about 2 weeks, until the cricket in the Caribbean starts. I wonder if the One Day boys can make that streak 22 in a row ?

Great work again boys :goodjob:

How many one-dayers are we playing over there?

We should start a Aussie Carribbean tour thread, annoy the yanks a bit more!