Watch out SA, India : Ponting

Ponting said that the most dangerous teams are South Africa and India. He, however, ruled out any favourites, saying that this is an even Cup.

"Who is the favourite right now, I am not really bothered because a number of teams have the ability to win the cup. In this sort of tournament there are a number of teams who can win. India and South Africa probably are the standout teams.

They are the powerhouses of international cricket.

"Pakistan and New Zealand are never too far away in ICC events. Sri Lanka, in these conditions, are as good an ODI side in the game around," Ponting said.

He said unnecessary speculations dont count much.

"I don't really care where we start the tournament. It's irrelevant. I think going into the last World Cup there was negativity around us. We lost the Commonwealth Bank series and lost to New Zealand. So there were a few doubts around our team but we went there and won the World Cup. I don't think it really matters too much what's happening in the lead-up."

But he is pleased with the 6-1 win against England.

"We are pretty confident coming into the World Cup just beating a pretty good English side 6-1. We are really in good shape and confident... momentum is around our team.

"I don't care. Who the favourite is. I don't know whether there is such a thing around in tournament like this.

He said the absence of Mike Hussey is a big loss for Aussies. Krejza and C Ferguson coming to the Australian team can only strengthen the team.

With Lee, Tait, Bollinger, Johnson and Hastings, Australia has one of the best fast bowling attacks in the world. If her batting clicks, she may retain the Cup !

Australia won the Cup twice under this talented batsman's leadership. Aussies have an enviable record of winning the Cup four times.