Former West Indian opener Desmond Haynes believes India and England are the two favourites to win the World Cup. In an exclusive interview with The Hindu, the 63-year-old, in India as an expert on the Power Sportz TV (Delhi), India’s first digital sports news channel, shares his thoughts on the World Cup.

Present West Indies team as compared to the teams of the golden era: It’s difficult to compare, but I think that the 1975 team and the team I was involved with in the 1979 World Cup under Clive Lloyd were the best teams the world has ever seen.

West Indies’ chances: I would like them to win. My doubts are about the bowling. But, the best part is this team is not thinking in terms of containing but taking wickets in the early part of the game. And, they can chase big totals too with the kind of batting line-up they have. A team which can be a major concern for other contenders.

On Chris Gayle: He has made a big difference to the side and can be a game-changer. I believe the dressing room is in good spirits as well. A lot more guys might make sure that they just give Chris Gayle a ‘going away package’ and celebrate in West Indies style.

Top three contenders: England is a very good side with a strong batting line-up and in familiar conditions. Aussies are always going to be in contention. And India is a very strong team. Both England and India are the favourites with the dark horses being New Zealand and Pakistan, who are so unpredictable.

Your most memorable World Cup... My first one in 1979 because we won!

..and most disappointing? I think the 1983 edition. When we were chasing 183 runs against India and we lost. And, since then, every person I know from India has never let me forget that!