Feb 19, 2007: The cricketing world is all padded up for the big game. The ninth Cricket World Cup, starts in the Caribbean next month. More than ever before, this time around, cricketing experts are busy dubbing the event as a test of endurance.

All the teams have been going through vigorous test of strength what with packed international matches leaving any a world cup probable with injury worries. Even the favourites have taken a beating after being beaten three times in a row by England during the recent triangular series. The drubbing by New Zealand has sprinkled salt on their fresh wounds. For the Aussies, it is now a tourney sans Warne as the spear head. England too has fitness woes, starting with captain Michael Vaughan, who recently sustained a hamstring injury having been out for most of the past year with a knee problem.

Meanwhile, the good-today-bad-tomorrow teams of India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, all former World Cup winners, are set to give it a try. India led by Rahul Dravid and with Sachin Tendulkar, Yuvraj Singh and the restored Sourav Ganguly, have a powerful batting line-up, while Pakistan has a cloud hanging over their lethal fast bowlers. Sri Lanka, with Sanath Jayasuriya still a potent force, has several aggressive strokemakers and, bowlers Muttiah Muralitharan and veteran Chaminda Vaas, has an attack that can be deadly. For South Africa, the challenge will be to keep their nerve. However it remains to be seen whether these teams would play responsibly when it is most needed.

This is one chance West Indies has as hosts, to redeem their long lost pride. Under Brian Lara the side has potential, But only the game would say if it has surprises to spring.

It is too early now to predict the winners. All have the potential, but as an old adage goes, the best one will go home with the cup.