2007 world cricket world cup group stage matches created tremors in the cricket fraternity. Early exit of Pakistan and India, murder of Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer, superb performance from Ireland and Bangladesh are the major highlights in this world cup.

1. Death of Bob Woolmer:

 
Suspicious death of Pakistan coach was overshadowed the wonderful performances from cricket stars. ICC failed to nullify the bookie’s control in fixing cricket matches. This resulted in the death of trend setting and passionate coach like Bob Woolmer.

2. Ireland and Bangladesh wins:

Though over shadowed by match fixing allegations, fighting spirit of these two teams entertained cricket fans all over the world. Ireland performance is a revelation in this world cup. Bangladesh sent shock waves by defeating India in a pure professional manner.

3. India and Pakistan team disasters:

Pathetic performance from the best sub continental teams. Disastrous batting performance from batting Gods like Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Younis Khan, Md. Yousuf and Injamam-Ul-Haq.

4. Marketing failure:

 
This world cup lost 60% of viewers market in the first round itself. With the exit of India and Pakistan, this world cup lost its sheen. 50% of group 8 matches will be one sided.

5. Organising failure:

 
Most of the stadiums are empty during world cup matches. Organising committee failed to create cup fever among West Indies youth. Whoever murdered Bob Woolmer, it is the first time a coach was murdered during world cup.

6. Australian performance:

Australian cricketers’ performance is the only shining grace in this world cup. Fastest world cup century by Mathew Hayden and fireworks by Adam Gilchrist, Ricky Ponting and Michael Clarke added entertainment to this otherwise disastrous cup.

7. 6 sixers in an over by Gibbs and fine fielding by Bermuda cricketers, energetic performances from Irish cricketers, Shane Bond’s fast bowling are other highlights in the group stages of the 2007 cricket world cup.

8. Match fixing allegations:

Match fixing allegation resurfaced again in this world cup. There are wide spread rumours on the fixing of the Ireland-Pakistan match. ICC should punish the culprits with severe punishments.

As an Indian cricket ardent fan, 2007 world cup is a disastrous failure. Switch off your TV and enjoy life. Good times will come.

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