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In the pursuit of regaining the ODI World Cup, former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly identifies Australia and South Africa as formidable challenges for the Indian team. Australia, having faced consecutive losses to India and South Africa, has recently found its form with four consecutive victories, propelling them into the top four of the tournament standings.
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"Australia and South Africa will be the two biggest challengers for India," Ganguly said at Eden Gardens that hosted its first World Cup match on Saturday with Bangladesh taking on the Netherlands.
"They have bounced back really well and are playing really good cricket. Today's win (against New Zealand) was really thrilling," the former BCCI president said.
In a recent match held in Dharamsala, Australia showcased its dominance as Travis Head hammered a brutal 67-ball 109, and David Warner contributed with a 65-ball 81, enabling Australia to post an imposing total of 388 runs in 49.2 overs. The team then clinched a thrilling last-ball victory against a determined New Zealand, solidifying their position in the top four and inching closer to a coveted semifinal spot.
South Africa, often tagged as 'chokers,' has been a revelation in the tournament, impressing with their powerful batting performances. Ganguly has included South Africa in the list of top contenders, replacing defending champions England in the race for the title. Currently, South Africa leads the 10-team standings with five wins out of six matches, surpassing India in the process.
"Never thought England would play like that but that's what sports is all about," Ganguly said.
India, positioned second in the standings, faces England in their sixth-round clash in Lucknow, with concerns over the fitness of star all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who is nursing a ligament injury and may miss additional matches. The much-anticipated clash between India and South Africa on November 5 has sparked a high demand for tickets, highlighting the excitement surrounding the match.
"India is a strong side and is doing well. But championship is too far, first they have to get past the knockout stage," said Ganguly.
"He is an important player but India are still a very strong side.
"It's India match obviously there will be craze. Thankfully I'm not (BCCI) president anymore. I don't have any tickets with me." Ganguly was also excited to see so many Bangladeshi supporters in the Saturday's match," he added.
Furthermore, Ganguly expressed enthusiasm at the significant presence of Bangladeshi supporters during a recent match. In a game against the Netherlands, approximately 70% of the 15,202 attendees hailed from Bangladesh, creating an atmosphere akin to a home game for the Bangladeshi team.
"Bangladesh is close, so it's obvious so many people have come. It's good to see so many Bangladeshi fans here. They have played well too. I hope the crowd attendance will be more for the Pakistan-Bangladesh game on Tuesday," Ganguly signed off.
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(With PTI inputs)
