Thrilling and Spectacular

Going through high school, university and later, I watched three World Cups where Australia slaughtered their opponents. Starting from the semi-final in 1999, the Aussies went undefeated in their next two magnificent campaigns.

Now, in 2022, the Australians (who else?) were defending their World title. Given their glorious history, fighting attitude, and home advantage, somehow, they couldn't even make the semi-finals!

This World Cup started with a bang and then it got so much better.

• West Indies eliminated; couldn't even make the main event which has 12 teams.
• New Zealand crush Australia by 89 runs. Total humiliation! This simply doesn't happen in a global tournament!
• A full 40-over match between India and Pakistan. What a classic. Whatever the Indians are paying Kohli is not enough.
• Ireland beats the mighty English. The favorites lost against a small team.
• Another 40-over match where Pakistan shockingly loses to Zimbabwe.
• New Zealand clash with England and lose.
• Pakistan dominates South Africa to keep their chances alive.
• Australia huff and puff against Afghanistan. They win but it's not enough. Their atrocious net run rate costs them.
• Did someone say choke? Netherland, for the first time in history, defeats South Africa! Pakistani and Bangladeshi fans are saying their prayers. It's a quarter-final!
• Every single team has lost, at least, one match.

This has been one of the most incredible cricket World Cups of all time. My prediction from last month for the final four:

1. Australia
2. England
3. India
4. Pakistan

Off by one. New Zealand definitely earned their place by annihilating Australia.