ICC World Cup 2019 | England will be challenged by India and Australia, claims Ricky Ponting

England are definitely the favorites to go all the way and lay their hands on the 2019 ICC ODI World Cup trophy in front of the home crowd support especially after their recent 4-0 win against Pakistan in the five-match ODI series. However, defending champions Australia and 2011 World Cup winners India have also been tipped to cause an upset on English soil in the coming months.

Former Australia captain and three-time World Cup winner, Ricky Ponting, admitted that the three lions will favourites in the early stages of the competition due to home advantage. But he backed his team and Virat Kohli & Co. to provide some tough competition to the host team.

"Initially, it would be England for two reasons. England have started playing well in limited-overs (cricket) and the tournament will be played on (their) home (soil). Naturally, they will have some advantage. But they will be challenged by India and Australia.

"This would be a very open World Cup. Although England are clear favourites, there are other strong teams who can cause upsets," Ponting told TOI in a recent interview.

The return of Steven Smith and David Warner has been the talk of the town ahead of the start of this year’s World Cup. Ponting reckons the addition of the experienced pair will definitely serve as a boost to the Australian team as they prepare to defend their title.

"The inclusion of these two cricketers would definitely enhance Australia’s performance in the World Cup. Australia did not do well while they were away from the team. I’m sure not only me, but the whole team is really excited to have them back.

"They have been playing here and there but they had a good outing in Indian Premier League (IPL). David Warner really played well from the first game in the IPL. He looked to be very committed. Smith had a niggle while fielding during the IPL, but he came back and I feel gradually he will get back to peak form," Ponting added.