India is unarguably the spiritual home of the cricket today as England, or West Indies was once. So , a World Cup in the continent is a sort of seasonal festival. There is something this World Cup doesn't quite add up, the story of billion dreams is unfolding on too many levels, a grand tapestry of expectation that will make the players shoulders a bit heavy. This is where garish hues of discord, ambiguity coalesce into commendable celebration in the end. There have been World Cups before in the subcontinent but this one is all about celebrating the freshness of the cast both on the field and off it. In the subcontinent, Cricket is not a gentleman's game as suggested by the West; it's a phenomenon more than a game with emotions attached and religions get united. We not only the most fanatical cricket followers but our sentiments goes beyond nationalism because we cheer IPL in same fashion irrespective of money maths it involves. Cricket is omnipresent in India and pressure on Men in Blue will be in high bars. Apart from our Blue brigade, we must not forget other contenders too. Aussies have just back with a 6-1 victory and are still the number 1 ODI side. This team with a complete right handed batting line up, it will be amazing to see the Aussie plans for the Cup's pursuit. Ponting was thrice part of a World Cup winner squad and twice as a skipper. He knows very well what to do and what to worry and Aussies understand very well how to hold nerves and start the fire.
Next Sri Lanka, Sankaggara's squad is also a strong unit. They have always have a good batting line up, but this time their bowling looks impressive with Lasith Malinga, who consistently provides early breakthroughs. Sri Lanka are clear favorites and they seem confident and composed.
Next Proteas, South African can be considered unfortunate with regards to history. Terrible upsetting results always haunt their team which is one of the most talented and best fielding side in the world. Proteas managed to qualify thrice for semis but yet to move ahead. This team the case is unpredictable as they can manage upsetting changes for the favorites; they are capable of that. Similarly England is one team which remains unfortunate enough to never rule the game they themselves invented. Ashes victory was a boost but ODI defeat by Aussie was demoralizing. Moreover subcontinent is never a favorite spot for English.
Finally our own team; With India, the expectation have reached unreal proportions. The relentless focus and building expectation to be the biggest hurdles that India faces. Dhoni is a calm and composed captain and it will be interesting to see how he copes with this hype. Being favorites is double edged sword as we have seen India got knocked out in Semifinals in 1987 as well as in 1996. This tournament too will have it share of surprises since there will be two knockout games on the way to the finals, For teams like India and Sri Lanka this is where danger lies and conversely for teams like Newzeland and Pakistan, this is their best chance to upset the math to reach the title clash.
Apart all things; there is something unique with Indian Team that none has, It's the Indian Superman who is worshiped by the entire nation. Not only his vision and experience is a plus point for India but his mere presence in the team is a big morale booster. Together with a cool headed Captain, we all pray that
" The Cup which has come Home should remain at Home"
