India looking pretty impressive
Indeed. Got me thinking about what hypothetical power rankings would look like at this stage:
1. India
2. NZ
3. Australia
4. South Africa
5. Sri Lanka
6. Pakistan
7. Bangladesh
8. Ireland
9. WI
10. Zimbabwe
11. England
12. Afghanistan
13. UAE
14. Scotland
India are becoming a big threat. The old cliche comes to mind "never write off the defending champions". They, along with us, are the only team to have bowled out every opponent so far, and their bowlers have been the most economical. We all know their batsmen are world class, but thought perhaps the bowling and fielding would let them down, however this hasn't been the case at all so far.
South Africa have so much talent, but the big C is lurking over them yet again at a major tournament. They've made an absolute meal of several of their run chases so far i.e. when the pressure is on.
Pakistan redefine the meaning of hot and cold. Some commentator tonight put it well, such a temperamental side. Only they could recover from a 150+ run walloping at the hands of a poor WI side to defend 220 at Eden Park vs SA. Still in the balance whether they will even qualify for the last 8.
Pakistan v Ireland is the only match of any real purpose left in the group stage. Could go either way. Our group will 99% likely finish NZ, Oz, SL, Bangladesh. Apart from India top, no idea how that group will finish. Tighter than a gnat's pube.
Look out for the Aussies.