CWC 2019: Five players who can change the game!
When a title as big as ‘World Champions’ is at stake, teamwork takes precedence over individual contributions. After all, an opportunity to shine on the biggest cricketing stage only comes once every four years. And each team is aware of this. But, every team also has a ‘trump card’ who can single-handedly turn the tide in any situation. These players have the potential to change the game with their skills and pedigree. Especially when it’s a close contest inching towards a narrow finish.
Here are five players who can prove to be ‘game-changers’ at the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup in England:
Andre Russell
One of the biggest takeaways from the 2019 IPL was Andre Russell’s blistering form that left every opposition team sweating. The West Indian was in scintillating touch throughout the entire tournament and spared no one. The Kolkata Knight Riders relied on him heavily every time they found themselves in a fix. Their move to promote him up the order certainly worked wonders. Russell is returning to the national fold after a year-long gap and it has provided a huge boost to the West Indies team. One of his biggest strengths is the ability to create maximum impact in minimum balls. If Russell gets going in the World Cup, the opposition will have a tough time putting the brakes on him.
Jos Buttler
His form at the 2019 IPL wasn’t as great as the previous year. But, Jos Buttler is an asset that England relishes having in their national setup. His sensational century in the recently concluded series against Pakistan batting at No.5 was a visual treat in itself. Hosts England are loaded with some of the best batsmen in the world going into this year’s World Cup. Buttler’s red-hot form has only made their batting lineup stronger than before. The fact that he notched up a quickfire hundred coming in towards the end of the innings is a testament to his talent.
David Warner
Australia’s David Warner has established himself as one of the most dangerous batsmen in the world. This year, he finished as the highest run-getter in the IPL, coming out of a one-year ban that kept him out of international cricket. Warner’s inclusion in Australia’s World Cup squad only means good news for the Aussies and bad news for bowlers in the opponent’s camp. Australia will enter the World Cup as defending champions and Warner’s presence at the top will be crucial in getting those early starts.
Kagiso Rabada
With no AB de Villiers in the mix, South Africa’s World Cup campaign already looks half-baked. But the Proteas will take heart from young Kagiso Rabada, who has shown tremendous promise. The 23-year old pacer had an excellent IPL outing with the Delhi Capitals this year, bowling those toe-crushing yorkers to perfection. He has also performed exceedingly well on the international stage. Rabada’s fearless approach to fast bowling is what makes him a potential game-changer for South Africa.
Jasprit Bumrah
Over the past couple of years, India’s Jasprit Bumrah has perfected the art of death bowling and has looked equally threatening with the new ball. His ability to strike at crucial junctures and contain batsmen by consistently bowling economical spells makes him a huge asset. Bumrah is also one of the quickest bowlers in the world with speeds in excess of 145 kmph. The youngster is coming off a fruitful IPL season, where he was instrumental in helping Mumbai lift their 4th trophy. With sky-high confidence and serious pace, Bumrah is the bowler most batsmen will be wary of.
