Whoever wins 2007 world cup, this world cup will be remembered as “Minnows world cup”. Small teams entertained cricket fans with their fighting spirit, never say die attitude and sensational wins over big teams. Wins of Ireland and Bangladesh over Pakistan and India may have stunned cricket fans, but it is good news for ICC. These wins will increase awareness about cricket in associate countries. If Bangladesh, Ireland and Kenya can able to reach quarterfinals, it is tremendous boost to spread cricket in more countries. Ireland: This soccer mad country is the surprise story of this country. The way they played against Pakistan indicated the quality of their stars. The way they tied Zimbabwe match illustrated the fighting spirit of Irish cricketers. More teams should play frequently against this team to raise the quality of players to test level. Ireland cricketers silenced the critics who questioned their (associate countries) inclusion in this big event. Bangladesh: Bangladesh finally arrived on the big stage. They stunned their famed neighbours with finest exhibition of all round cricket. They defeated New Zealand in the warm up match. If they continue to play in this manner, they may reach quarterfinals. Their win against Pakistan in 1999 world cup was suspected as match fixing. Bangladesh win over New Zealand in the warm up match is rated by most critics as a fluke. They silenced their detractors with sensational win over India. They never lost control over the match.  Kenya: They reached semi finals in 2003 world cup. If they can able to defeat England, they will reach Quarterfinals in this edition. If these minnows (no more) will reach quarterfinals, 2007 world cup will be remembered as a watershed year in cricket history.   … [Read more...]