Ace Anderson has been 'exceptional'

Shastri, who played 121 Test innings for India, says he has been impressed with the progress of Burnley pace ace Anderson, who starred with the ball for England during the VB One Day Series in Australia last month.

Shastri predicted big things for Anderson, who finished with 50 wickets for Lancashire in their 2002 campaign.

"He's a player that I like a lot," he said. "It's fantastic that he's been given a chance. His bowling in the VB series with Australia and Sri Lanka has been exceptional for such a young guy.

"I've been very impressed with his maturity. He seems level-headed and confident and the experience he'll gain from the World Cup will prove invaluable to him. He's definitely one for the future."

While Anderson gets his chance to shine, it is Flintoff who will carry the weight of expectation on his shoulders. He will be England's main man, says Shastri, who himself claimed 129 one day wickets and will be commentating on the World Cup with Sky Sports.

"Flintoff is a big player for England," he said.

"If he's fully fit then England will make some headway. This lad has it all. He is a ferocious batsman and can weigh in with some wickets.

"He can rip into any bowling attack but his fitness will be crucial. Unfortunately he has been injured for a while so hopefully he'll be fit to play.

"You shouldn't take any notice of what happened in Australia," he added.

"Australia are the best in the world, there's no doubt about it, and have hammered almost every team put in front of them."

But Shastri's tip to win the World Cup is not Australia.

"I tip South Africa to win," he said.

"With the home crowd behind them, along with their experienced players they will be hard to beat. They have a fantastic captain in Shaun Pollock and he'll lead them all the way."

Shastri felt the eventual semi-finalists will be South Africa, Australia and any two from India, England and Pakistan.