England have ‘outstanding chance’ to win World Cup 2019, says Alastair Cook

England will be launching their much-anticipated campaign in the World Cup 2019 at the Oval on May 30 and their first opponents are South Africa. The Brits are hosting the World Cup at home for the fifth time though have never succeeded in winning the trophy ever, finishing as the finalists thrice. Their form since their shock exit from World Cup 2015, however, has been impressive and given their team, a lot of experts are predicting England to lift the title at the Lord’s on July 14, when the final of the tournament will be played.

Former England captain Alastair Cook, who retired from the game last year after a Test series against India, is the latest to back his country to win their maiden title this time. England are currently ranked No.1 in ODIs and have won 30 of the 42 games since they have played since crashing out of WC 2015. Cook, who played 92 ODIs for England but never in a World Cup, told Sky Sports: “England have an outstanding chance,” Manoramaonline.com cited reports as saying.

England have a settled squad

“This is the first time for England is going into a World Cup with a settled squad. Everything looks great from the outside, they have every option covered.” England were also favourites in the 2017 Champions Trophy that was played in their den but they crumbled under the pressure of expectations, losing to eventual champions Pakistan in the semifinal. Cook though believes that such experiences make a team mentally stronger.

In the last one year, England have thrashed Australia 5-0 at home besides winning against New Zealand, India and Sri Lanka. Recently, they drew the Windies 2-2 in a five-game series played in West Indies. Cook said the England team will feature matchwinners who can do it for the team in the upcoming tournament. This is a great opportunity for Eoin Morgan and the guys to play some fantastic cricket,” he said.

England lost to the Windies in the final of the 1979 World Cup; to Australia in the 1987 edition and to Pakistan in 1992.

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