Halfway stage in the Super Eight's
This World Cup is starting to get interesting. Here we are, halfway through the Super Eight phase of the competition, and things have really moved along.
This World Cup is starting to get interesting.
Here we are, halfway through the Super Eight phase of the competition, and things have really moved along.
In fact, they seem to have moved all the way back to where they started.
Australia are still in prime position with New Zealand just below us.
Actually, New Zealand are above us on net run-rate, but I think this is one statistic we should all ignore until Australia are leading again.
The West Indies appear to be so excited about the semi-finals they intend to watch them from the grandstand.
Ireland and Bangladesh are both determined to show the cricketing world they belong in this stage of the Cup. Ireland's way of doing this is to start each match strongly and then fade towards the end. They are still losing every match, but not being thrashed the way everyone expected.
Bangladesh's method is to get belted in their first two matches and then go and upset South Africa. Believe me, the South African's I know were very upset about this result. However, my Bangladeshi friends weren't at all upset.
Quite the opposite in fact.
Funny game cricket.
I'm beginning to suspect England are employing the same tactics that won them the recent one-day series in Australia: start slowly and when everyone (including your own press) has written you off, suddenly turn things right around and win. I have a sneaking suspicion that this might work a second time, but I'm trying very hard to suppress such negativity.
That said, the England team will be watching today's match between South Africa and the West Indies with more than passing interest.
Sri Lanka are the team that everyone should be worrying about. Their results have been so erratic (although, truth be told, none of them truly terrible) that predicting how they'll go is near impossible. These results do place them third on the table and well positioned for the semi-finals.
Their win against England was a highlight though. Very enjoyable.
So what has the first half of the Super Eights taught me?
That Ireland and Bangladesh will make a valiant but ultimately futile effort.
That hosting the competition is still the kiss of death.
That New Zealand are still a pain in the arse.
That South Africa, England and Sri Lanka have are yet to decide which two of them will go through.
That Australia will triumph again. I hope.
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