Even before hosts India made an appearance at the 13th World Cup, two teams had already made a strong statement. The way New Zealand outplayed defending champions England in the opening match in Ahmedabad and South Africa annihilated Sri Lanka in New Delhi, the two sides have set the tone for the 
tournament.

New Zealand have been the runners-up in the last two editions played in Australia and England, thus everybody knows their capability. Thus, their comprehensive victory in a replay of the 2019 final on Thursday has sent a strong signal to other contenders that they are ready to be third-time lucky. It’s just the beginning, but they are an efficient unit who go about its job in a quiet but confident manner.