The 17-day tournament, which is expected to see high-voltage competition, begins with a double-header at Guyana National Stadium, with New Zealand taking on Sri Lanka in the opener, followed by a match between West Indies and Ireland under lights. Pakistan have the best track record in Twenty20 World Cup, having reached the final in the inaugural event in 2007 in South Africa and claiming the title in the second edition last year in England. They have the best winning percentage with 22 wins, 7 losses in 30 matches.
India, who lifted the trophy in 2007, has become the home of Twenty20 cricket with a hugely successful IPL. Though India suffered jolt by the unavailability of Virender Sehwag due to injury, they would be banking on Dhoni's captaincy. India will begin their campaign against Afghanistan on Saturday at St. Lucia. India would seek lessons from history as they had early exit after losing to Bangladesh in the 50-over World Cup in the Caribbean islands 3 years ago.
The West Indies have two of the world cricket's most dangerous players in captain Chris Gayle and Kieron Pollard who have shown their prowess in the IPL 3 for Kolkata Knight Riders and Mumbai Indians respectively. Besides the home advantage and support, they will also be strengthened by the return of bowler Taylor and batsman Ramanaresh Sarwan. Sri Lanka, who were the losing finalists in the 50-over World Cup 3 years ago, have a team with many of their players having IPL experience. This time, the organisers are embracing the mood and music that has typified Caribbean cricket for decades and have lowered ticket prices to ensure more spectators.
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