Former Test captain, Wasim Akram, believes that India and Pakistan are favourites to win the ICC World T20 2012 but conceded that Sri Lanka will struggle in the tournament due to their over-reliance on Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara.

Historically, the Asian teams have done quite well in the format, with India and Pakistan winning the initial two editions of the World T20 played in South Africa and England respectively; whereas, Sri Lanka finished as runner-ups in 2009.

Pakistan remain the only team in the world to have qualified for the semi-finals of all the three mega events played so far and have won more T20 matches than any other side.

India, on the other hand, have one of the globe’s strongest batting line-ups in the presence of Gautam Gambhir, Virender Sehwag, Virat Kohli, Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina and Mahendra Singh Dhoni, which makes them a strong candidate for the on-going illustrious competition.

Akram, who is considered to be among the history’s greatest all-rounders, expressed that T20 is a funny format and is prone to offer unpredictiblity. However, India’s strong batting and Pakistan’s extremely potent bowling line-up makes them the favourites in the great cricketer’s views.

“It’s too hazardous to pick favourites in a T20 competition. The complexion of matches can change like a chameleon. While India remain strong contenders because of their batting depth, Pakistan’s bowling strength makes them equally strong,” Akram said.

The former left-arm fast bowler feels that teamwork is the key in the game’s shortest format, which is the reason why, Wasim thinks, the hosts will find it tough to go all the way, with their over-dependency on a couple of senior players a major factor.

However, Akram predicts that England, South Africa and West Indies are also going to be very competitive in the tournament.

“After India and Pakistan, in my reckoning, two from among England, the West Indies and South Africa will complete the last four. Sri Lanka have little chance with a weak middle-order and over-dependence on Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara. No team has ever won the T20 World Cup as hosts. I think the trend will continue,” he added.

Courtesy: BETTOR.COM