With only the top-eight ranked teams allowed entry to the Champions Trophy that kicks off in London on Thursday, the event is as tough as it can be. While defending champions India are among the favourites to claim a third title, teams like England, Australia, South Africa and dark horses New Zealand have the ability to dethrone the Men in Blue.
While India's chances has been discussed separately, DH takes a look at the fortunes of the other teams:
England: Possessing some of the biggest hitters in world cricket, England are being talked about as the favourites to annex the title. Jason Roy, Alex Hales, Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, Eoin Morgan and Sam Billings can bludgeon the ball as good as anyone around. With Joe Root, among the best batsmen in the world now, also in their ranks, England have a batting line-up that packs plenty of punch. Problems are in bowling and their inability to handle pressure on big occasions. They are yet to win a major ODI ICC tournament and have finished runners-up on two occasions in CT.
Australia: The reigning world champions are always leading contenders in any major ICC event. In David Warner they have a crack opener who can take the game away from the opposition brutally while skipper Steve Smith never seems to be out of form. Aaron Finch, Moises Henriques and Chris Lynn provide the firepower while Glenn Maxwell is a maverick. They also have a powerful pace attack comprising Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, James Pattinson and Pat Cummins.
South Africa: Labelled as ‘chokers’ for faltering repeatedly on the world stage, South Africa’s only major trophy is the 1998 ICC KnockOut Trophy (CT’s previous avatar). Skipper A B de Villiers was desperate to prove people wrong at the 2015 ODI World Cup but there too they collapsed in the semis. Batting wise they are completely sorted, with de Villiers, Hashim Amla, Quinton de Kock, Faf du Plessis, J P Duminy and David Miller all proven performers. Wily leg-spinner Imran Tahir and young pacer Kagiso Rabada stand out amongst bowlers with Morne Morkel set to lead the pace attack.
New Zealand: The Kiwis, despite their limitations, are known to always punch above their weight. The 2000 champions (known as ICC KnockOut Trophy then) have repeatedly been involved in the business end of major ICC events and another strong show from them won’t come as surprise. Pitted along with England, Australia and Bangladesh, things won't be easy though. Batting-wise, much will depend on the experienced trio of Kane Williamson, Ross Taylor and Martin Guptill while Tim Southee and Trent Boult — fantastic swing bowlers — will lead the bowling attack. Chance for guys like Corey Anderson, Colin de Grandhomme and Mitchell Santner to make a name for themselves.
Pakistan: Having barely managed to qualify, Pakistan — like always — are highly unpredictable. In the middle of a major transition, Pakistan’s youngsters are struggling to find their feet in ODI cricket with even coach Mickey Arthur saying they are playing cricket “that belonged to the 20th century”. Not much time is there for them to take the leap to the 21st century but if any team can spring a surprise, it’s Pakistan.
Bangladesh: The Tigers’ rise in ODI cricket has been phenomenal. Since the 2015 World Cup, they have beaten India, South Africa and Pakistan — all at home — in a full ODI series and warmed up for the CT with a win over New Zealand in the final match of the tri-series at Ireland. The fact that they have nothing to lose, makes them extremely dangerous. A squad teeming with talented batsmen and pace bowlers, Bangladesh can beat the best.
Sri Lanka: For the first time in many years, the Islanders come to a major ICC event with hardly any expectation. Still reeling post the retirements of Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara, Sri Lanka’s form has been abysmal in the lead-up. They certainly have to play out of their skins to make an impact.