Quote:
Originally Posted by burn_baby_burn
So who is the power house in cricket these days? I think when I lived in Australia 10 years ago they were the best in the world or at least near the top.
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India has the political power lol.
Cricket wise, India is rated no. 1 in tests but they just play at home on their flat pitches so they keep winning there. They have a good batting lineup but ok bowling. They have big trouble on the horizon once Dravid, Tendulkar, Laxman retire as they're in their late 30s. They definitely have the best player in Virender Sehwag though.
Australia, still though match in any format. Not the powerhouse you remember them as but still can beat anyone on any day.
South Africa, they're still the really good that goes into some tournaments and chokes in the semis or finals. Top batting and bowling but just don't have the confidence to win anything.
England, recently won the T20 championship in a convincing manner, thumping everyone along the way including Australia in the final. Their bowling can improve but the batting lineup is strong when Morgan is inserted into the lineup.
Pakistan, controversy magnets. In the recent time they've been in the news for spot fixing(Asif, Aamir, Butt), their wicketkeeper disappearing on the night of 5th and series deciding ODI(Haidar), PCB chief accusing English players as fixers only to back down when they threatened to sue him. On their day they can beat anyone and have all sort of talent but they cannot stay away from trouble. Recently beat Australia and England in England in tests only to have it washed away with spot fixing.
Sri Lanka, Murali retired. Have some decent players, but beatible.
NZ, just lost an ODI series in Bagladesh, that says enough. Their cricket is going downhill but Vettorri is doing everything to save it.
WI, mired in selection problems. If the captain is from Barbados he picks almost all Barbados players and if he's from T&T then almost all players from T&T. Recently had Gayle and couple other players turn down central contracts.
In terms of talent id rank em like this.
1. South Africa
2. Australia
3. Pakistan
4. England
5. India
6. Sri Lanka
7. West Indies
8. New Zealand
In terms of ability to win
1. India
2. Australia
3. England
4. Sri Lanka
5. South Africa
6. Pakistan
7. New Zealand
8. West Indies
Hope that helps
