Australia and New Zealand hosted the first ever World Cup in coloured clothing and white ball in 1992. There was a certain charm in waking up early morning to watch the much-touted spectacle. Years later, that very excitement has engulfed me all over again. Since the World Cup is in that part of the world and two new balls are used - one from each end –I’m focusing on the openers and the new ball bowlers of every team, for that’s what might hold the key to their chances in the tournament.

If a team loses more than one wicket in the first ten overs or fails to take a minimum of two in the same time period, they’re likely to chase their shadow for the remaining forty overs. On this parameter, I find that South Africa is stacking better than most because of the Amla-Quinton De Kock combine as an opening pair.

South Africa’s Dale Steyn (left) and Morne Morkel at a training session. Pic/Getty Images