Sourav Ganguly Reveals The Reason That Makes Pakistan One Of The Favourites For World Cup

The way Pakistan have played in the last couple of years, not many think the Men in Green can go all the way in this World Cup. Pakistan stunned the entire world by winning the ICC Champions Trophy in 2017 against all the odds but have failed to live up to the lofty expectations since then. They had performed disastrously in last year’s Asia Cup and their form this year is not promising either.

They started the year with a 3-2 loss in South Africa before being clean-swept 5-0 by Australia in the United Arab Emirates. The loss had raised questions over the team’s preparedness for the upcoming World Cup. In the ongoing series against England, they are trailing two nil.  Not very surprisingly, Pakistan are are not being discussed as one of the favourites to win the 2019 edition.

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However, former India captain Sourav Ganguly thinks that Pakistan will enter World Cup 2019 as one of the favourites. The legendary captain pointed out Pakistan’s remarkable record in England especially during ICC events to prove his point. Ganguly picked Pakistan alongside India, hosts England and Australia to reach the semifinal of the World Cup.

“Pakistan’s record in world tournaments in England is remarkable. They won the Champions Trophy two years ago, they won the 2009 World T20 in England,” Ganguly was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.

Ganguly also cited the recent example of Pakistan’s second ODI against England, in which they almost chased down 374 before going down by only 12 runs.

“Pakistan always play well in England. You see the last game in England. England got 374 and Pakistan just lost by 12 runs. They also beat England in England in Test matches there because of their bowling lineup,” said Ganguly.

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At the same time, the former skipper said that India should not be wary of Pakistan while also tipping the nation to be strong contenders.

“I don’t believe in records. Both of them will have to play well on that particular day. India will be a very good side. They will be very hard to beat. Team which has the likes of Kohli, Rohit, Shikhar Dhawan can’t be weak,” said Ganguly.

The World Cup will start on May 30 with England taking on South Africa. Pakistan and India, on the other hand, will start their campaigns on May 31 and June 5 respectively.