Sachin Tendulkar predicts semi-finalists of T20 World Cup 2022; leaves out big teams
The 8th edition of the T20 World Cup in Australia is underway with the first round going on. Eight teams are fighting an exciting battle to advance to the "Super 12" stage. Only four teams will make it to the next round.
With the tournament entering the "super 12" stage, the predictions for the top teams in the tournament have started. Many former and current cricketers around the world and cricket analyists have shared their views on the top teams in the competition.
Many believe that Australia and England have got the best chances, but some believe that India, South Africa, and Pakistan have also got an outside chance. Well, former Indian cricketer and "Master Blaster" Sachin Tendulkar has also opened up about his choices for the semi-finals of the tournament.
In his latest interview with Sportstar, Sachin has revealed his four semi-finalists for the competition. He also added that he wants the Men in Blue to win the tournament to lift their second World T20 title.
He said, "I would want India to be the champion, but my top four would be India, Pakistan, Australia and England. New Zealand is a dark horse, so is South Africa because they know the conditions."
However, Sachin also pointed out that the likes of South Africa and New Zealand are like the dark horses in the race because they are aware of the playing conditions in Australia and are familiar with them.
Australia, who are defending their title, would like to make it two out of two, and that too, at their home ground. On the other hand, India suffered injuries to some of their key players. Ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah was ruled out due to a back issue, while all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja had a knee injury.
Australia, England, Pakistan, and New Zealand were the four semi-finalists in the last edition in the UAE. Australia beat Pakistan to advance to the final, while New Zealand won against England. In the end, Australia beat New Zealand in the final to clinch their maiden T20 World title.