MARVEL'S GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 2 REVIEW

Instead of having the movie titled as 'GOTG Volume 2', I strongly believe Marvel Studios should have gone ahead with the title being 'Peter having some daddy issues'

Remember the first time you saw them on screen? You must've wondered, what is Marvel doing with C Grade Comicbook characters? A talking racoon and a tree who's vocabulary is limited to three words? What can Marvel and James Gunn possibly do with them? Well that movie went on to be one of Marvel's most successful ventures at the box office, even rating wise. Ever since, fans have been waiting for the second installment.

Director - James Gunn
Cast - Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Bradley Cooper, Vin Diesel, Kurt Russell, Elizabeth Debicki, Pom Klementieff, Karen Gillan, Michael Rooker, Sylvester Stallone
Rating - 4/5

There's this truism which is noticeable that the sequels of superhero/comicbook movies aren't as great as their first parts are. Be it Iron Man, Thor, or even The Avengers – none of the follow-ups managed to capture their predecessor’s magic. It was always going to be a tall order to replicate the success of the first movie. Marvel Studios has completely eradicated this notion now, first with Captain America : The Winter Soldier and now with GOTG Vol. 2, which is definitely as good as the first part, if not better. 

First thought that came to my mind when I finished wiping away my tears after the last scene (before post credit scenes, this film has not one, not two but FIVE post credit scenes) was - It's Beautiful..

This movie is different, very different from the first part at least in the way it matters. This movie is more funny and it makes you more emotional than you think you'd be. 

The only disappointing thing that I found in this movie is that we all were expecting this to be a setup to upcoming films – ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ and ‘Thor: Ragnarok’, but keeping the proceedings self-contained to this ragtag bunch of anti-heroes is hardly a detrimental factor. The movie doesn't show Thanos nor talks about Infinity stones. In fact, it allows for a more personal look at each of these previously obscure characters, and delves into their individual psyches which was important. Since we’re relatively familiar with some of their idiosyncrasies, Gunn allows them to run wild to humorous effect, while revealing crucial aspects of their respective backstories. Be it Gamora-Nebula's childhood arc or Rocket hiding love for the group or Drax's sadness, Gunn explores every arc, even the 'unspoken words' and the chemistry which is noticeably visible between Peter and Gamora since the first part. He also extracts strong performances from a diverse bunch of actors, and all of them bring their A-game to the table as their prominent chemistry with each other is on full display.

Perhaps, this is the most visually inventive Marvel has ever been, despite the psychedelia of Doctor Strange. It's a visual treat for the fans. The soundtrack has bigger, more familiar hits; Groot is, in his new avatar as Baby Groot, an even greater scene-stealer than he was before; and this time, the villain does not succumb to Chris Pratt’s dance moves – but this is all just a means for Gunn to explore the heart of his story: Family.

Vol. 2 also manages to surpass another nagging issue troubling the Marvel films by setting up a villain with ample depth just like Captain America : Civil War; enough to keep us emotionally invested and breaking the chain of weaker antagonists seen before. There is, of course, one new prominent member to the Guardians this time around and he’s the one that causes all the drama and makes it all worth it. As Ego, Kurt Russell plays the role of Living Planet/Father of Star-Lord perfectly. The first film, you’ll remember, focused a lot on Quill not knowing who his father was and simultaneously finding a new family in his fellow Guardians. Kurt Russel is the real MVP of the film. 

Mantis is really beautiful.. from the inside as Drax rightly phrases it. Also, new to the galaxy is Ayesha (Elizabeth Debicki), the leader of a superior-acting gold-skinned group known as the Sovereigns, who are out to get the Guardians for stealing some of their highly-valuable batteries. It’s her quest for retribution that ultimately brings back fan-favorite Yondu (Michael Rooker), whom she sends after the Guardians and who loses favor with his fellow Ravagers for seemingly going soft on Star-Lord, and leads to the movie’s final showdown. (Speaking of which, see this movie in 3-D, if you can, it’s really quite beautiful.) Ayesha will, no doubt, play a role in the larger Marvel Cinematic Universe, so keep an eye on what she does.

Micheal Rooker as Yondu has always been pleasing to watch, more so in this one as he opens up about himself to Rocket and Peter at the end. This movie also throws light on Yondu and Peter's father-son relationship as well. The first film focused on bringing the group together, while this sequel makes audiences understand why the ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ are such a big deal on a cosmic level and brings them closer. The repercussions of their actions here will be felt on a much grander scale, setting up probably the Infinity Wars and Phase 4 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the process. Needless to say, it’s an absolutely essential and thoroughly enjoyable spectacle to watch. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is definitely awaited with all the new characters that we see at the end, especially Sylvester Stallone as StarHawk. But before that, let's watch them fight Thanos alongside Avengers.

All FIVE Post Credit Scenes Explained (Contains SPOILERS, you have been warned)

1. Kraglin practices with Yondu's arrow : Yondu wasn’t just a father figure to Star-Lord, he was also one to Kraglin, his loyal crew member. And in one of Guardians 2’s last scenes, Star-Lord gives him Yondu’s arrow. We see Kraglin trying to master Yondu’s arrow of death. He’s not very good at operating the weapon, and has trouble wrangling control of it. Finally, just when you think he’s getting the hang of the thing, he gets it to fly … straight into Drax’s neck, leaving the Destroyer screaming in pain.

2. Stakar (Slyvester Stallone) re-unites his own Guardians of the Galaxy : Stakar Ogord tells his fellow Ravagers that Yondu’s death taught him life is too short to hold onto grudges and baggage, and that they should put differences aside and reunite for old times’ sake. Ravagers include HELA as well who's the villain of Thor 3 : Ragnarok. The set of Ravagers he’s talking to only makes sense if you’re familiar with the 1975 Guardians of the Galaxy Team from the comic books.

3. Marvel finally hints ADAM WARLOCK : In the movie’s third credits scene, Ayesha tells one of her handmaidens that she’s figured out a way to make a more perfect being than herself. She calls him “Adam,” as the camera pans over to one of the Sovereign’s birthing pods. Adam Warlock is one of the strongest characters in the space and has helped Avengers and Guardians fight against Thanos, he has had possession of Soul Stone on numerous occasions, Sadly, James Gunn has confirmed that Adam Warlock will not be a part of Infinity War and will be only in GOTG3.

4. Baby Groot to Teenager Groot : In the end scene, when Peter plays 'Father and son' on his new found 'Zune', there's a symbolic meaning to it as Baby Groot rests on his shoulder. He misses Yondu as a father and also realizes that he's a father figure to Groot and realizes his responsibility. In Guardians 2’s fourth credits scene, we see Star-Lord trying to discipline an adolescent Groot who utters the character’s “I am Groot” catchphrase in the tone of a snarly, annoyed teen. Star-Lord is mad at Groot for making a mess, but Groot is busy playing video games and ignores him. So, Groot will be in his teenage form in Infinity War.

5. Stanlee's Cameo : Guardians 2’s final credits scene features comic book legend and former Marvel president Stan Lee in an astronaut outfit talking to a bunch of weird-looking bald-headed dudes with capes (The Watchers, Marvel and Fox share the custody of The Watchers) — it actually builds off his cameo in the film (which takes place during Rocket and Yondu’s jump to Ego). He’s regaling them with stories, but they start to walk away. He yells that they were his ride home — wherever that may be — and tells them he has more stories to tell before the scene fades to black. The message of the scene is clear: The grandfather of Marvel comics still has stories to tell despite his time running out. (he's currently 94)

X Men : Apocalypse Review

Well, it really does seem Marvel is on a roll this year. Bryan Singer gets a lot of things right again in the third installment of the new alternate timeline trinity. (Sequel to Days of Future Past and First Class) Apocalypse, played by Oscar Issac is the first mutant ever. He didn't have a robotic face or structure like in comics, but a lot of CGI effects were used to make him look as villainous as possible.(Still turned out to be bad) Apocalypse of X-Men is kind of equivalent to Darkseid of JL, or Thanos of Avengers.

 Like the Bible, Apocalypse had four horsemen. Not the usual Famine, War, Pesitilence or Death this time, but they used the four pillars of a cult leader : Military (Angel), Politics (Magneto), Sex (Psylocke), Youth (Storm). Loved the opening shot of the movie, they used history pretty well. Also, the X Men tune, which after so many films, we automatically start humming..

 Wolverine's extended cameo as Weapon X was outstanding. We see him going all berserk, like the comics, even look wise, it was extraordinarily accurate. This origin scene was much better than whole of Wolverine : Origins movie. Makes us wonder, how good will be the R rated movie of his, with all the berserker rage violence especially after success of Deadpool. Hugh Jackman has literally taken X Men franchise forward, can't see anyone else playing Wolverine now.

 Probably the world hates JLaw as Mystique but she does justice in this one as an actress. Though again, we see more of her than Mystique which is not what we signed for. Mystique isn't supposed to be a hero, guys. Learn.

 Charles Xaviers (James McAvoy) gets bald finally. (And yes, timelines are not confusing, Bryan Singer erased every bad thing) He was supposed to be one of the horsemen previously like in comics, until Singer found a fan art piece on internet of Olivia Munn as Psylocke, who has lived up to the role. Loved Micheal Fassbender as Magneto again, probably doing a better job at it than Ian Mckellen. We see more depth to his character, and see the rage and anger which makes him stronger and completely different from Eric.

 But, the person who stole the show again, is his son, Quicksilver. Fox is using Quicksilver better than Marvel did. Evan Peters has another slow motion sequence which probably beats the previous one. Beast and Havok are just as good as First Class. Angel, later Archangel is awesome too.

 The new kids : (Yes, 80's timeline) Storm, Cyclops, Nightcrawler, Jean Grey seemed great. Sophie Tudan as Cyclops finally got a comic accurate visor and finally became a hero that X-Men movies and we deserve. Jubilee was also in the movie, but for some reason, her scenes showing her mutant powers were cut. She even electrocuted herself on the set for it. A lot of scenes from trailers or tv spots which we've seen, didn't make the final cut. Probably the director's cut would be better than this movie, like Rogue's cut of Days of future past was better. The movie was dark, intense, but still had some comic relief like most Marvel films. It's the best Xmen flick till now (Not including Deadpool) and Singer will strike gold at box office.

 Though the movie is kinda predictable if you have seen a lot of Xmen flicks or Marvel movies till date. At one point of time, me and my best friend ran out of patience and shouted, 'Jean Grey turn Pheonix already'. (Most beautiful scene visually) Singer has tried to make destruction look visually appealing. It's about time, Fox gives back all the rights to Marvel. Only then we will be able to witness Avengers vs X-Men comic storyline. Guess, after 2020 that will be possible too. Overall, it was a great movie. Would rate 4 on 5. Amidst the fight between Civil War & BVS, does Apocalypse stand a chance? Decide for yourself!

P.S (Spoilers) In the post credit scene, we see Essex Corps' agents collecting blood samples and finally taking Wolverine's DNA to create another mutant (Guessing, X-23) For those who don't know, Essex Corps is run by Nathaniel Essex who becomes Mister Sinister. Strongly believe, after Apocalypse, only Mister Sinister can be the perfect villain. We will see him in Wolverine : One last time and probably Gambit too. Also, Jean Grey unleashing her Pheonix powers, suggests X-Men undertaking the space journey now, Shi'ar empire, also originating Pheonix Force. The next X-Men movie will be set up mostly in 90's and in space hopefully.

Captain America : Civil War Review

Have never waited for a movie like this before :') ‪#‎TeamCap‬ all the way!

Alright, first things first, it's spoiler free. First thought : It's waaaaaayyyy toooooo good. As a person who have read almost all the popular Marvel comics and knows a little way too much about MCU, I completely loved it. Rarely, you see a superhero movie which does not have over the top non stop action or way too many smart wise-cracks. Captain America Civil War was a perfect blend of humour and emotions.

The film takes Marvel to new highs in introductions and character development. Winter Soldier and Black Panther being my favourites. You may hate Bucky Barnes for his wrong doings but Sebastian Stan plays it with ease. Chadwick Bosenan steals the show more often as the King of Wakanda.

Spidey was a champ. Tom Holland is to Spiderman, what RDJ is to Iron Man. Sorry, Tobey and Andrew but he's the perfect kid. Scarlett Johansson and Elizabeth Olsen are more than just eye candies. Have deeper meaningful roles and dialogues. Will pave way for more female superheroes : Wasp and Ms. Marvel. Don Cheadle and Anthony Mackie are perfect sidekicks. How can anyone forget the new entrants Paul Bettany and Paul Rudd, probably the trickiest superheroes. Rudd, again rocks it as Ant Man and you know.. he has more abilities..

tongue emoticon

 Well sadly no one talks about Jeremy Renner, I won't too 

tongue emoticon

 Finally MCU gets a villain who is at par with Loki. The manipulative Baron Zemo. Russo brothers know very well how to execute a Civil War storyline with limited characters giving everyone their own importance and screen time. The 17 minute long airport fight scene is indeed the best comicbook superhero fight. Great fight sequences and cinematography. Do not miss it on Imax 3D. This is worth your money. Can watch it again and again.

Also, the end dark tense battle keeps you on the edge of your seats.

 Well, it can be said with confidence that this was indeed the best Marvel movie yet (better than CA : TWS & GOTG) Also, it was a third Captain America film, gave a fitting end to the trilogy, which in my opinion is the greatest superhero trilogy of all time. (In ranks of Nolan Batman series, well Dark Knight rises was bad though, but of course DC Fanboys and few opinions may defer) Russo Brothers knew their strength and kept it simple while Zack Snyder experimented too much (too many storylines at a time) with Bvs that is why the latter tanked. He should learn a thing or two here. On the other hand, Civil War, with the critical acclaim, is going to rake in a moolah. Expecting it to cross 1-1.5 billion dollars. It's a proper Cap film where we see so many dimensions to the character Steve Rogers. You can't imagine anyone else playing the role better than Chris Evans with so much brilliance yet. RDJ, is flamboyant as ever, since Iron Man. Marvel always had the perfect casting. My heart broke again when the dialogue 'He's my friend' 'So was I' dialogue came in. Gutted.

 I went as a Team Cap supporter but at the end felt both were right on their parts. Yes, this film makes you think. Also, this movie is pretty consequential and changes the face of MCU before the Infinity Wars. Involving Tony's New Avengers, Guardians for sure, expecting Cap's Secret Avengers and probably The Defenders on the big screen.

For those who want to understand the film better : Please watch previous 2 Cap movies, also a little bit knowledge about Iron Man and rest characters is necessary.

Rating : 10/10. Kinda gets predictable for comicbook nerds, but majorly it's almost absolutely perfect.

P.S Russo brothers are making Avengers : Infinity Wars and their budget is 1 billion. (More than what BVS could ever earn.)

The Money Game, IPL 8 AUCTIONS..

The West Indies loss to the minnows Ireland at the World Cup 2015, didn't go unnoticed as The IPL 8 Auctions happened yesterday. Even the performances of Zimbabwe and Scotland were exceptional. A lot of big names went unsold at the auction. Here's everything you would like to know about the IPL happening this year:

The unsold players:

Ek din izzat gayi aur dusre din paisa, haaye allah.

SIX NIL I REPEAT SIX NIL. BETA BETA HOTA HAI, BAAP BAAP HOTA HAI. 

India preyed. Pakistan prayed. Beta, patakhein wapas upar rakh do.

1. Delhi Daredevils: A purse of 40 Crores, the most as they put almost their team into the auction pool after yet another debacle. The talk of IPL, highest bid ever, they got Yuvraj Singh for a whooping 16 Crores, this time. He raked in a moolah, last time around too. Well, not denying that Yuvi is a great match winner but worth 16 crores for 14 matches? Time will tell. DD had a lot of money, so they bought their potential captain Matthews for 7.5 Crs. Indian discards Mishra and Zaheer for 3.5 & 4 Crs respectively. Ranji player Shreyas Iyer for 2.6 Crs. And some other players for good prices. Still, not a great team as compared to others for winning this year's edition.

Shoaib Akhtar's reaction when he saw Yuvi was sold at 16 Crores.

2. Royal Challengers Bangalore: So Vijay Mallya apparently doesn't have money to pay his Kingfisher employees and bank loans but still manages to come and enter a bid war with DD for Yuvraj Singh? Why didn't you retain him then? So they've got keepers like AB De Villiers, Manvinder Bisla and Yogesh Takawale and they still buy Dinesh Karthik for 10.5 crores, second highest bid. What are you smoking, Mallya and co.? Drunk, maybe? Darren Sammy for 2.8 Cr was probably their most sensible buy. Added pacers like Sean Abott & Adam Milne to their list. They're the South Africa of IPL. Chokers XI.

Yeah, that could be done.

3. SunRisers Hyderabad: This team had the best IPL Auction. Grand salute. Much impressed by SRH. I'm sure this team is owned by a woman as they were on a shopping spree. Bought players after players at a good cheap bargain price. Kane Williamson for just just 60 lakhs. Oh My God. Kevin Pieterson at base price 2 Crores. England Captain Eoin Morgan for just 1.5 Crore. Ravi Bopara for One Cr. They've certainly have one of the best bowling attack with likes of Bhuvi, Steyn, Ishant, add Trent Boult and Praveen Kumar now to the list. Now, a great batting lineup too. But too many overseas players.

They owned this auction.

4. Kolkata Knight Riders: The Defending Champions. Already strong. Didn't have too much purse but still managed to get James Neesham, NZ Allrounder at a cheap rate. Bought a 19 year old tennis ball mystery spinner who doesn't yet have a Ranji contract to his name, CA Kariappa for a whooping 2.4 Crores. Insane? That guy must be laughing all the way to the bank. Interesting choice, Narine has company. Brad Hogg & a lot of local talents. Let's hope, they get their perfect XI to defend the cup.

Third Time Champion? #WantToSeeKingKhansCartwheel

5. Mumbai Indians: Mukesh Ambani has a lot of money, so much that he can have a whole IPL of his own. But here, the purse was limited as they didn't release much players. After Sachin, Smith, Hussey, what they lacked was an explosive opener. And they managed to get it for 3.2 Crs, Aaron Finch. They got back Ojha and Blizzard. MI already has a perfect blend of allrounders which makes for a stable middle and lower order. Some good local buys at base prizes.

They used million dollars Maxwell as a waterboy, not everyone can afford.

6. Chennai Super Kings: The strongest team of all editions combined. They've the Captain Cool and half of the Indian National Team. They managed to get Micheal Hussey back for 1.5 Crores, previous Orange Cap holder. Their best buy was India's best seam allrounder: Irfan Pathan. He had a great Ranji season and would definitely love to repeat his performance for MSD and get back to the Indian side. Rahul Sharma, Ankush Bains were some of the interesting buys. #WhistlePodu

Allegations. Cough cough.

7. Kings XI Punjab: Who needs more players when they already had the best auction, the previous year and bought Sehwag, Miller, Maxwell, Bailey, Johnson at cheap prices. They just added an opening option. So, one of India's best Test batsman Cheteshwar Pujara made way for another best Test batsman Murali Vijay. 3 Cr deal. Preity Zinta was all smiles, and happy with her team which just missed out on the previous Cup.

Most beautiful team.

8. Rajasthan Royals : The dark horses of the IPL who groom fresh Indian talents and Rahul Dravid makes them match winners. Team India scouts are found here for recruitment. They got Chris Morris, Juan Theron at cheap rates and few more local talents. Don't be surprised, 'cause you're going to get surprised looking at the team's performance. Also, they never really used their whole purse.

This man can't do any wrong. LEGEND.

Well all said and done, the performance on the field will matter more than the analysis of the team on paper. This was my take on the IPL Auctions held. Opinions and reviews welcome :)

Thanks a lot for reading. Now following the World Cup closely (IPL can wait) and come out with my next article quickly this time around.

Cheers. AM to PM ;)

Regards, Pranay Mehta.

The Cup That Matters..

Well, new blog, BMM kept me much occupied, but can't really stay away from writing and cricket. The present sadness in life aspires me to move the pen again. With two weeks to go, here it is.. Everything you'd want to know about World Cup 2015.

The first round of the competition will be the pool stage.

Pool A	Pool B
England (1)	South Africa (2)
Australia (4)	India (3)
Sri Lanka (5)	Pakistan (6)
Bangladesh (8)	West Indies (7)
New Zealand (9)	Zimbabwe (10)
Afghanistan (12)	Ireland (11)
Scotland (13)	United Arab Emirates (14)

14th February is the day, the World Cup commences and we get glued to our Tv screens. Sorry, what is Valentines Day? We, ardent Indian cricket fans definitely don't care about this day and have been waiting for 15th February, ever since the greatest match of the world cup was scheduled. Yes, India vs Pakistan! (No points for guessing) Sorry, in advance, if you feel ignored during February-March! #12DaysToGo

Add 2011 to that.

Wikipedia states, India vs Pakistan is one of the most intense sports rivalries in the world. An India vs Pakistan match has been estimated to attract about three million television viewers. The records will be broken yet again, Down Under.

The Top 8 Squads:

Team India : Ravichandran Ashwin, Stuart Binny, Shikhar Dhawan, MS Dhoni (capt & wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Virat Kohli, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Akshar Patel, Ajinkya Rahane, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Rohit Sharma, Umesh Yadav.

There's no Bharat Ratna Sachin Tendulkar (Retired or else could've been God's seventh WC) or a Sehwag, Yuvi, Gambhir, Zaheer. India's squad comprises of some unfit pacers, and a medium pacer too. Three spinners, not much batting effort yet shown to be called as perfect all rounders. Binny, justified his selection in the recent tri-series. India's strength has always been batting and they've great top order talented batsmen, a Kohli, a couple of IPL talents and also the world's best Captain - Wicket keeper batsman. Dhoni is expecting a good news back in India, well it may definitely bring a good news to his and Team India's form Down under. It'll be really stupid to write India off on the basis of an exhausting tour. They are well aware of the conditions now, and they aren't facing Australia or England before the quarters. They were the Champions, are the Champions and will always be the Champions. "Dudh maangoge toh kheer denge, World Cup mangoge toh cheer denge" - An Indian fan was quoted. #WontGiveItBack

Prediction: Semi-Final for sure. Finals maybe (Fingers Crossed)

Sachin- 49 ODI Centuries. Indian WC'15 Squad- 48 + 1* (Rohit Sharma's recent ton)

Team Pakistan : Ahmed Shehzad, Ehsan Adil, Haris Sohail, Junaid Khan, Misbah-ul-Haq (capt), Mohammad Hafeez, Mohammad Irfan, Sarfraz Ahmed (wk), Shahid Afridi, Sohaib Maqsood, Sohail Khan, Umar Akmal, Wahab Riaz, Yasir Shah, Younus Khan.

Misbah-Ul-Haq has decided to retire after this World Cup. Hopefully, Afridi does the same and again comes for the next World Cup. With their world class spinner Saeed Ajmal out due to illegal action and even Hafeez not allowed to bowl, Lala's leg-breaks will be crucial. With a decent batting and bowling line-up, Pakistan are not entering the tournament as favourites, but will definitely be a team to watch out for. Their pacers should be effective. Currently playing a short series with NZ, their state looks same as other subcontinent teams, down under.

Prediction: Quarter-Final.

Naa ishq main naa pyaar main, jo maza hai Pakistan ki haar main.

Team South Africa: Kyle Abbott, Hashim Amla, Farhaan Behardien, Quinton de Kock (wk), AB de Villiers (capt & wk), JP Duminy, Faf du Plessis, David Miller, Morne Morkel, Wayne Parnell, Aaron Phangiso, Vernon Philander, Rilee Rossouw, Dale Steyn, Imran Tahir.

Starting the tournament as one of the favourites, this team has every quality to be a world champion. But sadly, have choked in important must-win situations in past. Hashim Amla has stayed one of the most consistent batsman since the last couple of years. Fastest to century no. 7 to 19, in terms of innings. Rilee Rossouw partnering him well. We all are living in AB's dream world. AB De Villiers, Mr. Awesome recently scored the fastest 50 & 100. He's one batsman who can demolish any attack. Superhumans shouldn't be allowed to play cricket. But, this is no Wanderers. They've a lethal bowling attack. Maybe, for the first time, the Proteas get their hand on the trophy or will they just 'choke'?

Prediction: Semi-Final.

Even with De Villiers, Kohli & Gayle, Vijay Mallya doesn't win IPL though.

Team Sri lanka: Dinesh Chandimal (wk), Tillakaratne Dilshan, Rangana Herath, Mahela Jayawardene, Dimuth Karunaratne, Nuwan Kulasekara, Suranga Lakmal, Lasith Malinga (subject to fitness), Angelo Mathews (capt), Jeevan Mendis, Thisara Perera, Dhammika Prasad, Kumar Sangakkara (wk), Sachithra Senanayake, Lahiru Thirimanne.

India's friendly neighbour who comes to India to play cricket, whenever we want to and whom we encounter in some or the other semi-final, final match. Well, the fans are bored to watch India-Srilanka playing again and again. They are the defending T20 champions and they'd like to make it double this year. Jayawardene and Sangakkara have planned on their retirement after the world cup. Angelo Matthews & co. will be looking for a fitting farewell for their legends, just like they won T20 WC. Have failed to strike as a team in NZ lately, but have a fair chance at the cup.

Prediction: Quarter-Final, Semis maybe.

Giving away trophies since years, sister concern of 'choking' South Africa.

Team Australia: George Bailey, Michael Clarke (capt), Patrick Cummins, Xavier Doherty, James Faulkner, Aaron Finch, Brad Haddin (wk), Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Johnson, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, David Warner, Shane Watson.

Four time World Cup Champions. Playing in their own backyard, an added advantage. And currently, looks one of the strong teams. Winners of the Tri-series against England and India. They bat very deep and their tail has been worrying for most teams. Micheal Clarke, one of the most successful Captain is going to join the team after their first WC match. They've match winners like Faulkner, Maxwell, Warner, who can easily bat out the opposition in the game. Starc & Johnson are raring to go. No Cricket fan can forget Phil Hughes incident, but the Kangaroos are back on track and motivated enough.

Prediction: Semi-Final. Finals, maybe.

63 Not Out.

Team England: Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Gary Ballance, Ian Bell, Ravi Bopara, Stuart Broad, Jos Buttler (wk), Steven Finn, Alex Hales, Chris Jordan, Eoin Morgan (capt), Joe Root, James Taylor, James Tredwell, Chris Woakes.

The country which invented the game of cricket but never really won a World Cup. Not much hopes this time around too. Though they defeated India in both ODIs they faced in recent Tri-series, the reason was India's performance was worse than them. After sacking their best batsman KP, England have never looked a complete team. With Cook being sacked from World Cup's squad, all hopes on their Ireland import captain Morgan. Batting seems to be a worry for them. While bowling looks just fine.

Prediction: Quarter-Finals.

Ke bhaiya choote Lagaan.

Team New Zealand: Brendon McCullum (captain), Corey Anderson, Trent Boult, Grant Elliott, Martin Guptill, Tom Latham, Mitchell McClenaghan, Nathan McCullum, Kyle Mills, Adam Milne, Luke Ronchi (wkt), Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Daniel Vettori, Kane Williamson.

Black Caps start as tournament favourites. Never has the New Zealand team looked more strong than this. They tharshed Srilanka recently. They've have an added advantage because they're playing most of their matches home. They were last seen, winning against Pakistan. McCullum leading from front. Mumbai Indians special talent Anderson in form. Kane Williamson, regarded as the future of NZ Cricket, like Kohli, Smith and Root. Grant Elliot and Daniel Vettori, recalled. Black Caps, have it in them to win the trophy this year, for the first time.

Prediction: Semi-Final for sure. Maybe, Finals.

Maybe they pull more pants, this World Cup.

Team West Indies: Sulieman Benn, Darren Bravo, Jonathan Carter, Sheldon Cottrell, Chris Gayle, Jason Holder (capt), *Nikita Miller, Denesh Ramdin (wk), Kemar Roach, Andre Russell, Darren Sammy, Marlon Samuels, Lendl Simmons, Dwayne Smith, Jerome Taylor.

They don't have a team to compete at the World Cup stage. No hopes from the most entertaining team. No IPL Giants, they are definitely going to miss the services of Pollard and Bravo. Wonder, why the WICB took such a harsh decision. With Narine pulling out of the squad, all hopes are lost with him too. Major setback. Maybe, Dwayne Smith and Chris Gayle make up for the batting. And let's hope, their pacers win matches for them.

Prediction: Quarter-Finals. Unless a few upsets.

Only IPL for them.

These were the Top 8 teams, but yes Bangladesh and Ireland can cause upsets this year around too, as we can see the form of few teams before World Cup. Zimbabwe and Scotland have a below average team. While, Afghanistan and UAE make their debut on the bigger picture, the World Cup.

Well all said and done, the performance on the field will matter more than the analysis of the team on paper. These were my views. Opinions and reviews welcome :)

Thanks a lot for reading. Will follow the World Cup closely and come out with my next article quickly this time around. Till then, let's wait for the World Cup and pray, that we don't give it back.

Cheers. AM to PM ;)

Regards, Pranay Mehta.