Can England Win!!

England came to the World Cup 2011 as one of the top-most contender after India and South Africa. But, right from their start against Netherlands they have looked patchy. They have given the most entertaining results, but unfortunately have sufferred the most among the test playing nations.

Their bowlers, who have destroyed many teams in bilaterla series, failed to raise the bar. Every team, except South Africa, scored freely against them. Even the 9th wicket pair of Bangladesh was too hot to handle for English bowlers. To add to their bowling woes, Broad has to return home and even Pietersen who could have been handy with spin could not complete the tour.

Batsmen and Bowlers
Batting has been at its best during the tournament and the saving grace. In the first match they chased down 292, the second highest total against them in World Cup matches, scored by Netherlands without much fuss. The second match saw them equalling the target of 338 against India. The third match was forgettable for batsmen. Luckily bowlers won them the low scoring match against South Africa. Against Ireland, the batting saw them score 327 runs.

Sadly bowlers had a field day and the minnow Ireland created history when KJ O’Brien almost single handedly chased the English high total. Against Bangladesh, the batsmen could not play the spinners properly and folded to a total just above 200.

Still against West Indies, England will fancy their chance in the World Cup. In fact, England team and English fans must have already started celebrating. Their head to head record against West Indies is hugely in
their favor. In World Cup England has won 4 of the 5 matches played against West Indies. Their only defeat came in the 1979 World Cup final, when West Indies used to unstoppable.

Players Who Can Get the Victory
Strauss, Trott, MOrgan, Swann and Bopara can be the English heroes as they will be the key players who can matter the most. Contribution from other 6 players will be obviously desired, specially Anderson.

Gayle, Pollard, Sammy and Benn can the the players whom England must stop to secure the win. While Gayle and Pollard can devastate any team on their day, irrespective of the nature of pitch, Sammy and Benn have been bowling some exceptional spells in the last 3 matches.

Is Win Just Enough!!
This is a double task for England. They should not only win the game but should make sure that their Net Run Rate crosses India’s Net Run Rate.

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