India only bookies' fourth favourite despite CWC heroics

Despite their impressive run in the Cricket World Cup so far, India still are bookmakers' fourth favourite to win the title in March.

India have defeated Pakistan, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in their first three Pool B encounters in the World Cup and currently sit at the top of their group with 6 points. However, they remain the bookies' fourth favourite to defend their title.

Meanwhile, despite their loss to New Zealand at Eden Park on Saturday, Australia still remain clear bookmakers' favourites to win the 2015 Cricket World Cup, Stuff.co.nz reported.

New Zealand recorded a one-wicket win over Australia to reclaim the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy on Saturday, before a sellout of 40,053, but more significant silverware could be up next time the sides are seeded to meet, on March 29 in Melbourne.

A revised TAB market on Sunday had Australia as 2.85 dollars favourites to hoist the trophy at the MCG, with New Zealand at 3.50 dollars, South Africa 4 dollars, India 7 dollars and the rest rated next to no chance.

On current rankings, and assuming no quarterfinal upsets, unbeaten New Zealand would host South Africa back at Eden Park on March 24 in the first semifinal and Australia would host India in Sydney.

Ireland, Zimbabwe and Pakistan all remain in the mix as New Zealand's likely quarterfinal foes from pool B.

As seen on Saturday in a staggering 55.3 overs where 19 wickets tumbled and 303 runs were scored, the sides with quality fast swing bowlers and batsmen with cool heads would be leading contenders, the report added.