2019 World Cup: Comparing the batting line-up of major teams
What's the story
The World Cup 2019 is less than three weeks away. All the teams will be raring to have a crack, as they play matches in the round robin format. Only four teams will enter the semi-finals. The batsmen will play a major role in team's success this term. In this light, we compare the batting firepower of SENA countries, along with India and Pakistan.
South Africa
South Africa's hopes pinned on Faf du Plessis
South Africa have a strong opening department on offer. Aiden Markram, wicket-keeper batsman Quinton de Kock provide the shield alongside veteran Hashim Amla. The versatile Rassie van der Dussen is someone who adds depth in the middle. Skipper Faf du Plessis will be the main force of this batting line-up. Veteran southpaws JP Duminy and David Miller need to contribute immensely for the side.
Australia
Australia go in as the in-form side
Australia have been playing well of late. The return of Steve Smith and David Warner is the major highlight. In-form Usman Khawaja could open alongside Warner. Smith is their main asset, with Aaron Finch coming in the middle. Shaun Marsh adds solidity as well. Glenn Maxwell has been consistent, with Alex Carey being the wicket-keeper batsman. Aussies will look to rotate the side well.
India
India have the best top order
India have the best top-order. Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan and skipper Virat Kohli will handle the duties. The form of these three could determine India's success. MS Dhoni is enjoying a splendid form and can be India's trump card. Kedar Jadhav is a strong candidate. KL Rahul and Dinesh Karthik add depth from the bench. However, India's weakest link remains the number four position.
New Zealand
New Zealand need to step up
New Zealand will be need to put in commendable shifts with the bat. They have the desired names, but the players can be inconsistent. Kane Williamson is the star man and will carry the side. Experienced Ross Taylor brings solidity as well. Colin Munro and Martin Guptill are the openers. Henry Nicholls and Tom Latham fit in as well alongside uncapped wicket-keeper Tom Blundell.
England
England have powerful names in XI
England are the number one-ranked ODI side in the world and a lot of the credit should go to the lethal opening pair of Jonny Bairstow and Jason Roy. Joe Denly could be the back-up opener, with Joe Root providing solidity at number three. The middle order is strong. Skipper Eoin Morgan holds the card. The services of Jos Buttler lift this star-studded side.
Pakistan
Pakistan need to produce consistency
Pakistan have a decent top order unit. Imam-ul-Haq, Abid Ali and Fakhar Zaman are the three choices. The classy Babar Azam is their major strength at number three. His performance will define Pakistan's journey in the 2019 World Cup. Mohammad Hafeez, Shoaib Malik and skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed bring immense quality and experience in the middle. Haris Sohail is in the mix as well.
Information
These three nations lead the batting show: Our take
Looking at these six countries, England, India and Australia lead the show. Morgan's side in particular has the best batting unit on offer alongside India. Aussies can offer substance as well. Pakistan and New Zealand need to work hard, alongside South Africa.