World Cup 2019: 4 teams expected to qualify for the semi-finals

The ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 is underway in England and Wales, with a number of closely fought contests, lop-sided encounters and the incessant rains adding variety to the tournament.

With four matches washed out in the 19 matches scheduled thus far, most teams will be looking to claim wins in their remaining matches in order to strengthen their claim for the World Cup title.

While England, Australia, and Afghanistan are the only three teams to have played all their games till date, Sri Lanka has had the worst of luck with two of its four matches washed out.

However, amidst the hue and cry of rain hurting the excitement of the tournament, New Zealand and India are the only two teams which have remained unbeaten. As the tournament progresses with some top-notch encounters, each team can be expected to book a spot in the semifinals.

Here, we have a look at the top four teams that are expected to qualify for knockout stages of this World Cup 2019.

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#4 New Zealand

New Zealand - ICC Cricket World Cup 2019

Matches played - 4

Won - 3, Loss - 0, No Result - 1.

Total Points - 7

Remaining Group Fixtures - South Africa, West Indies, Pakistan, Australia, England.

The Black Caps have begun their World Cup campaign on a positive note. They are often referred as the 'Dark horse' in the ICC tournaments. After four matches, they are on the top of the points table. The finalists of last edition of the World Cup, the Black Caps have performed quite well till now. Although, it can be said that they are yet to be tested by a quality opposition as they have so far only played Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.

However, as the saying goes, well begun is only half done. The Kiwis, who have reached the World Cup semi-finals seven times previously, are expected to carry on their good run and to make it to the Last Four.

Key Performers thus far-

Ross Taylor (130 runs from two innings)

Lockie Ferguson (8 wickets from three matches).

Also see - IND vs PAK head to head stats

#3 Australia

Australia - ICC Cricket World Cup 2019

Matches Played - 4

Won - 3, Loss - 1

Total Points - 6

Remaining Group Fixtures - Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, England, New Zealand, South Africa.

The defending champions have started their campaign on a good note. The return of Steven Smith and David Warner has definitely lifted their morale and once again made them a force to reckon with. After their defeat to India, they bounced back quite strong to beat Pakistan in their previous encounter.

However, the injury to their star all-rounder Marcus Stoinis could prove to be a huge blow to the team, if he fails to recover in time. Australia have performed well so far but are not yet at their dominant best but could be pipped to make it to the semifinals.

Key Performers thus far-

David Warner (255 Runs from four innings)

Pat Cummins & Mitchell Starc (9 wickets each from four matches)

#2 England

England - ICC Cricket World Cup 2019

Matches played - 4

Won - 3, Loss - 1

Total Points - 6

Remaining fixtures - Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Australia, India, New Zealand.

England are the firm favourites to win this edition of the World Cup. Barring the game against Pakistan where they suffered a narrow defeat, England have been absolutely emphatic and dominant in this World Cup. The last minute selection of Jofra Archer has paid huge dividends and strengthened their bowling unit.

However, their key players Jason Roy and Captain Eoin Morgan have sustained injuries during their last match against West Indies. England would be hopeful that they recover in time, as both these players are absolutely vital for their World Cup campaign.

England have been ruthless and dominant in this World Cup so far and are certainly expected to make it to the semifinals.

Key Performers so far-

Joe Root (279 Runs from four innings)

Jofra Archer (9 wickets from four matches)

#1 India

India - ICC Cricket World Cup 2019

Matches played - 3

Won - 2, Loss- 0, No Result - 1

Total Points - 5

Remaining Group Fixtures - Pakistan, Afghanistan, West Indies, England, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka.

The Men in Blue are one of the top contenders to win this edition of the World Cup. Thus far, India has managed to put in some clinical performances and won games comfortably against South Africa and Australia.

Rohit Sharma has a century and one half-century from two games and will be key to make up for the absence of Shikhar Dhawan. The middle order has managed to get some runs under their belt which will be vital in the remaining games.

India look quite positive and with some exceptional performances already, the Virat Kohli-led side will look to carry on that good momentum and make it to the semifinals of this edition of the World Cup.

Key Performers so far-

Rohit Sharma (179 Runs from two innings)

Yuzvendra Chahal (6 wickets from two matches)