Secondly, whilst there's a certain amount of vicarious pleasure in watching the baggy green tie themselves in psychological knots facing Murali you'd like to think that Sri Lanka could win fairly - but I don't honestly think they can.
By that I was simply implying that any Sri Lankan victory would have to be taken in the context of Murali's dubious bowling action. In no way was I suggesting that Sri Lanka as a team cheat - in fact I'd go as far to say that I think the way they play the game is absolutely fantastic... one of the few bright spots in a pretty mediocre, forgettable World Cup.
So, what about the final - who's going to win?
At the start of the tournament I predicted a South Africa / Sri Lanka final - forgetting the South African propensity for being able to 'talk the talk' but totally incapable of 'walking the walk'. It was extraordinary that, in the space of less than a week, the Jaapies humiliated England, and then suffered the same fate themselves against the Baggy Green.
Since their (first) victory over South Africa, Australia have looked awesome. Everything has come together at the right time and they have the strength and the firepower to blow any other side away. (Small hat tip to England, therefore, for giving the Aussies their closest game - even though it was hardly a nail-biter!)
It's hard, therefore, to predict anything except a third consecutive trophy for Ricky and his team. The only possible chink of light is the variety in the Sri Lankan bowling attack, which might upset the applecart.
But don't hold your breath.
Prediction - If Aussies bat first, they win by 50+. If Sri Lanka bat first, Australia win by 5 wickets.
1 comment:
Good tip!
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