Cricket World Cup: Experts' predictions

Kane Williamson in action for the Black Caps. Photo / Getty Images

The Herald's cricket writers predict what will happen at the Cricket World Cup.

Which side will win it?

Dylan Cleaver:

It pains me to say it, but Australia will win. I don't think it's the strongest side they've ever put together, but the likes of Mitchell Marsh and the always irritating Glenn Maxwell give them depth and balance.

David Leggat: This could be South Africa's time. They appear strong, or at least highly capable in all areas, have strong leadership and they are hugely motivated, having found ways to self-destruct in the past.

Andrew Alderson: Can we legitimately say New Zealand? I will, and that's without a whiff of patriotism. There's little more the side could have done to prepare for this tournament. Most contingencies have been addressed in 17 ODIs and two warm-ups since the season start. Sixth is a deceptive world ranking.

How far will New Zealand go?

Dylan Cleaver:

All the way to Melbourne. Years of conditioning has prepared me to expect the worse, but somebody in this team always steps up. It would be a huge shame and a minor shock if that didn't continue during the CWC.

David Leggat: The final. The preparation has been tip top, they have players for all situations, the confidence is high, but measured. Start strongly, watch the support build and they have every chance to reach the decider. Get there, which would be new ground for New Zealand, and they have every chance of victory.

Andrew Alderson: A quarter-final exit would disappoint, a semi-final departure would satisfy, a final appearance would delight. New Zealand are genuine contenders in an even competition, but so are South Africa and Australia. To paraphrase Churchill, New Zealand will have to do more than their best; they'll have to do what's required.

Which side will be the surprise or flop of the tournament?

Dylan Cleaver:

This might be tempting fate, given who NZ meet first up, but I was not impressed by Sri Lanka during their tour here. At times this team looks like nine guys standing around waiting for Kumar Sangakkara or Mahela Jayawardene to do something.

David Leggat: Pakistan have previous when it comes to surprising the form book - think 1992 for a start. They are a team capable of playing above themselves if the mood is upon them. A flop? Hard to go past the West Indies, who look at serious risk of an embarrassingly early departure unless they find their feet, and fast.

Andrew Alderson: As defending champions and world No.2, India look vulnerable. If their batsmen, particularly Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, fail, can they recover? Since January 2014 they have won series against England, the West Indies and Sri Lanka but lost 4-0 to New Zealand and didn't win in the tri-series against Australia and England.

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