Side playing consistently well over next six weeks will win World Cup: Dhoni

DHAKA - Indian captain M.S. Dhoni on Thursday said that the World Cup, which starts on Saturday, would be a closely contested tournament between the 14 participating countries.

Dhoni said this during the joint press conference of the captains held in Dhaka.

“All teams are in good touch. The gap between matches will help players recover from niggles which are bound to happen. It means every team will be in good shape for their matches,” the Age quoted Dhoni, as saying.

“A side that plays consistently well over the next six weeks will do well,” he added.

The 29-year-old, speaking on behalf of the three host nations, also said that it was fitting the tournament was being held in sub-continent where cricket is a major sport.

“I welcome the other teams and hope they will enjoy our hospitality. The interest in cricket in this part of the world is unmatched. I am sure everyone will have a great time,” Dhoni said.

Defending captain Ricky Ponting said that the World Cup is the pinnacle of cricket, and insisted that the teams will make sure that is a spectacle to remember.

“On behalf of the 13 other captains, I welcome the cricket fraternity to the World Cup,” Ponting said.

South African captain Graeme Smith expressed his opinion that this was a far more open tournament than the previous ones.

“I believe every team taking part has a chance to win, it is all very open,” Smith said.

The first match of the tournament will be played on February 19 with co-hosts India and Bangladesh facing off at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka.

The final would take place on April 2 at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. (ANI)