Leg-spin legend Shane Warne believes India is one of the favourites to lift this year's World Cup trophy along with England and defending champions Australia.
"As I'm putting my #worldcup squad together for my column, I really believe Australia can win it again. As we have the players for the conditions, match winners etc. I think England & India go in as hot favourites, but if the selectors play their part - then the Aussies can 100 per cent win," Warne wrote on Twitter on Tuesday.
The Indians have been in excellent form in limited overs cricket in the recent past. They won 5-1 in South Africa, defeated Australia 2-1 before beating New Zealand 4-1 this year.
The only blemish in their near perfect recent record is a 2-1 loss to England.
Earlier, Sachin Tendulkar also backed India to lift the tropy in Lord's...36 years later at the same place where India first won it.
"I have gone on record saying that we have a perfect balance in the team where we will be competitive in any part of the world or on any surface."
"As far as our chances are concerned, I will not hesitate in saying that we are the favourites," Tendulkar told PTI.
"It’s all about getting the early momentum. My judgment on the toughest contenders would be England, while New Zealand would be the dark horse," he said. "I know New Zealand have struggled in this series but it’s a good unit, one needs to be on their toes."
"I think Australia at full strength will be a formidable side. With Smith and David Warner back in the team and their other bowlers coming back into the ODI squad, it will be a competitive side," Tendulkar added.
