Balanced India favourites to win ODI World Cup: Sachin Tendulkar

Sachin Tendulkar has no hesitation in terming India as favourites going into the World Cup but what makes him happier is the team's ability to be competitive "in any part of the world and on any surface".

A strong top order, decent finishers, wicket-taking new ball bowlers and spinners who can keep it tight and also pick up wickets in a bunch in middle overs – In all, India have the perfect team combination and are the favourites to win the upcoming ODI World Cup in England, believes Sachin Tendulkar.

"As far as our chances are concerned, I will not hesitate in saying that we are the favourites," Tendulkar told PTI.

Seeing India’s current performance against the top-ranked teams and that too in their own backyard - Virat & Co. has won three bilateral away series against South Africa (5-1), Australia (2-1) and New Zealand (4-1) with only defeat coming against England  in the last 12 months – Tendulkar stated that the Indian side will come good in any part of the world.

"I have gone on record saying that we have a perfect balance in the team where we will be competitive in any part of the world or on any surface," said Tendulkar.

The master blaster believes India would face tough competition from hosts England and despite India running them over in the recently-concluded five-match series, New Zealand would be the dark horses.

"It's all about getting the early momentum. My judgement on the toughest contenders would be England, while New Zealand would be the dark horse," he opined.

"I know New Zealand have struggled in this series but it's a good unit, one needs to be on their toes," he said.

The suspended duo of Steve Smith and David Warner will be back in the international fold on March 29 and Australia will be as dangerous as any other team.

"I think Australia at full strength will be a formidable side. With Smith and David Warner back in the team and their other bowlers coming back into the ODI squad, it will be a competitive side," said Tendulkar.