ICC World Cup 2019: Steve Waugh names the best batsman, picks four semi-finalists

Steve Waugh has picked the best batsman and the four semi finalists of the World Cup.

Former Australia World Cup winning captain Steve Waugh has picked the best batsman of ICC World Cup 2019 based on performances so far. While there has been some notable knocks from Bangladesh’s Shakib Al Hasan and India’s Rohit Sharma – both of them playing crucial roles in their respective sides victories – Waugh has gone in with Australia captain Aaron Finch as his pick for the best player of the tournament so far.

File image of former Australia skipper Steve Waugh (Getty Images)

Finch, who was not at the top of his game in the led-up to the World Cup after going through a disastrous India tour, is currently the third highest run-getter of the tournament with 343 runs to his name at an average of 68.60. Finch has two half-centuries and one century to his credit and at an astonishing strike rate of 110.64.

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“He has remained calm and composed off the field in dealing with the media and has unquestionably been the premier batsman of the tournament,” Waugh was quoted as saying by ICC.

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Hailed as one of the greatest captains to have ever played the game, Waugh rated Finch’s 153 against Sri Lanka as one of the best innings of the tournament so far. His innings against Sri Lanka looked destined for a big number from ball one. On a good quality surface against a modest attack his balance, placement, and power overwhelmed the opposition to the point where he was hitting to wherever, whenever he wanted,” Waugh said.

Known to surprise the opposition with his tactics, Waugh also named his choice of semi-finalists. Waugh picked hosts England, defending champions Australia, last World Cup runner-ups New Zealand and India.

Almost halfway through the group stages of the ICC World Cup 2019, the top four teams – England, Australia, New Zealand and India – have not only created a gap from the rest of the teams in terms of points but have also shown the difference of class with power-packed performances on the cricket field.

“Whilst Sri Lanka didn’t really threaten Australia with perhaps the exception of their first 15 overs of batting it was another positive step for a team that seems destined to be joined in the semis with England, New Zealand and India.

“Each of these teams will be fine tuning and gathering impetus and knowledge before a final week where they only need to win two games to stand aloft. It could come down to one individual who leaves his mark and creates a legacy for himself and his team, Waugh added.