cricket

Updated: Mar 15, 2019 09:35 IST

India squandered a 2-0 lead after the first two games of their five-match series to lose 2-3 against Australia at home.

The loss has put the team under intense scrutiny with about a couple of months to go for the 2019 World Cup in England.

However, captain Virat Kohli is of the opinion that India remain a strong side despite their recent performance and will be among the title contenders in England.

He further added that every team in the multi-nation event will pose a potent threat.

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“Honestly, every team at the World Cup is a threat. Anyone who gets on a roll at a World Cup, it’s very, very difficult to stop that team,” Kohli said in a press conference.

“Having said that, any team who’s on a roll can be knocked out in the semis... they can be defeated immediately by a side that’s more brave on that particular day and wants it more and is more expressive as a side.

“I don’t think any team starts the World Cup as favourites. Any team is dangerous. You see how the West Indies has come along. They are going to be a serious threat at the World Cup as well because of the balance that they’ve been able to crack.

“England has been a very strong side, Australia is now looking balanced, we are a strong side, New Zealand is good, Pakistan can defeat anyone on their day,” Kohli added.

The 2019 World Cup begins with the first math on 30 May. The final will be contested on 14 July at Lord’s.