'India, Pakistan favourites for World T20'

Former Australian wicket keeper Adam Gilchrist said that both India and Pakistan are major contenders for winning the upcoming ICC World Twenty20 to be played in the West Indies later this month.

Gilchrist said while India is an experienced side and have been performing well in the recent past, Pakistan, despite the recent controversies, remains a tough side to beat in the slam-bang version of the game.

"Pakistan, definitely is a big threat. Yes, I am aware of the turmoil going on in Pakistan cricket, but the defending champions are a good outfit in this format of cricket. They are one of the contenders," Gilchrist said.

He pointed out that India is a balanced side with a great mix of experienced and young players, and that it has a good chance of pocketing the coveted title for a second time next month.

"Obviously they are contenders, too. A big contender, I must say. Their batting is deep down, bowlers are experienced. It's a well-balanced side under Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Moreover, they were the champions in the inaugural edition, too. Definitely they have a good chance in the Caribbeans," Gilchrist said.

Commenting on chances of his home team winning the title, Gilchrist said Australia have the potential to beat world's best teams, but added that one can not predict a winner in T20 cricket.

"Actually, the format is such that you cannot pinpoint any winners in a T20 tournament. One performance is enough here to turn the match. It's totally unpredictable," he said.

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