Kumar Sangakkara and Simon Doull pick all-time World Cup XI

As the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 draws tantalisingly closer, the cricketing fraternity is abuzz with predictions and expectations for the tournament. With experts and players alike weighing in on their favourites and potential semi-finalists, the excitement is palpable. Some have touted India as strong contenders, given their home advantage, while others have highlighted England's prowess with a wealth of all-round talent. Michael Vaughan even went so far as to declare that "whoever beats India is going to lift the World Cup."

While the teams gear up to exceed expectations on the field, there's also been a great deal of chatter off it. Speculation and scepticism abound as fans and pundits dissect the possibilities. Amidst this backdrop, cricketing legends Simon Doull and Kumar Sangakkara, while speaking on Sky Sports, undertook the formidable task of selecting an all-time best XI from the history of World Cups, spanning from the inaugural tournament in 1975 to the last edition in 2019.

Simon Doull and Kumar Sangakkara’s all-time Best XI of World Cups

At the top of the order, the formidable opening pair of Sachin Tendulkar and Adam Gilchrist, who also dons the gloves as the wicketkeeper for this illustrious XI, was a unanimous choice. The middle order boasts the likes of Ricky Ponting, a stellar presence at number three, followed by the incomparable Vivian Richards, the ever-reliable Aravinda de Silva, and the legendary Clive Lloyd.

In the all-round department, the team benefits from the extraordinary talents of Imran Khan, who can both bat and bowl with distinction. Following him is the Sultan of Swing, Wasim Akram, occupying the eighth spot. Akram's ability to move the ball both ways made him a nightmare for batters around the world.

The bowling attack is nothing short of menacing. Shane Warne, the spin wizard, and Muttiah Muralitharan, the unparalleled spin maestro, are the twin spin sensations that spearhead the attack. With the ability to turn the game on its head, these two spin giants are a force to be reckoned with. To add the finishing touches to the bowling lineup, the metronomic Glenn McGrath has been included. McGrath's unwavering accuracy and mastery of the craft make him an indispensable asset.