Sourav Ganguly says World Cup to be keenly contested, predicts semi finalists

For Dada, the World Cup represent the best format to judge quality

Ex-India skipper Sourav Ganguly has made a bold prediction regarding the teams that could make it to the semi finals in the awaited 2019 World Cup. "My pick for the four semifinalists spot would be India, Australia, England and Pakistan. India are one of the title-contenders of course," Ganguly told a news agency in an interview.

Ten teams will be competing in the ODI cricket's extravaganza in a round robin format where every team plays each other before the semifinals.

"It's going to be one of the most keenly contested World Cups. Indian team is so strong that in any tournament they will be favourites. This World Cup will probably be the best format. The best four teams will reach the semi-finals playing all the teams. There are no easy teams," said Ganguly.

Kuldeep Yadav's four wickets in nine games is not something that will affect his performance in the World Cup, feels the veteran left handed batsman. "He will get wickets in the World Cup, don't worry. He's a superb bowler," Ganguly said.

Recently Ganguly had expressed ample confidence that despite being snubbed from India's WC squad DC batsman Rishabh Pant has a bright future and could play for India for 15 years in near future. A passionate Ganguly was seen lifting the youngster in the air in celebration after his knock against Rajasthan. DC have been on a roll, currently placed second in the points table with 14 points in their kitty from 11 matches.

The Prince of Kolkata is now playing a pivotal role in the turnaround of Delhi Capitals in search of an elusive IPL title. "I don't see the challenges as tough, I just find a way to try and make it work. Sometimes it works, sometimes it does not. It's a great honour to help these players and turn around a team which has not done well in the past," the Delhi Capitals advisor said.

Ganguly is currently under scanner of BCCI Ethics Officer for alleged conflict of interest charges. Apart from being CAB President the former Indian captain is also a member of CAC and dons the hat of mentor for Delhi Capitals in the ongoing IPL season.

Asked about the glitz and glamour of the IPL, Ganguly said: "IPL is a pure sport. The glitz and glamour is just 15 per cent. 85% is actually professional, hard cricket. Players are under enormous pressure to perform".

Bottom Line: Having led India to 2003 WC final, Ganguly has a fair idea of what team dynamics are needed in big tournaments and Virat Kohli could have a session with the Prince of Bengal before boarding that crucial flight to England.