Hogg predicts India-New Zealand final

It's only a gut feeling, but veteran spinner Brad Hogg believes Australia will miss the Cricket World Cup final, and India will win the showpiece event.

Australia's World Cup campaign hit a snag on Saturday with a one-wicket loss to New Zealand, which came on the back of a washout against Bangladesh in Brisbane and a comprehensive victory over England.

The co-hosts are currently in fourth spot in Pool A, although the four-time champions are expected to make light work of Afghanistan at the WACA Ground on Wednesday.

Their match against Sri Lanka at the SCG on Sunday will play a crucial role in shaping the elimination rounds; victory will likely see them face a quarter-final against the third-ranked team in Pool B, while a loss could thrust them into a quarter-final showdown against South Africa, before a likely away semi-final against New Zealand.

Hogg, who was part of Australia's victorious 2003 and 2007 World Cup teams, is confident Australia will reach the semi-finals, but not so sure they can make it all the way to the final on March 29.

"I think the four teams who will reach the semi-finals are India, South Africa, New Zealand and Australia," Hogg said.

"And I think India and maybe New Zealand might get there (to the final).

"I really want Australia to win, but you just have those gut feelings that something is going to happen."

Image Id: ~/media/DD406EBCB69E48B1B0D4221BD61AF70D

Hogg celebrates Australia's 2003 World Cup win // Getty

India were winless during their Test and ODI tour of Australia, but they have enjoyed a remarkable form revival during the World Cup, posting crushing wins over Pakistan, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates.

The defending champions will be aiming to continue their hot form against the West Indies on Friday, and Hogg likes what he sees in MS Dhoni's men.

"I was a little bit worried about them emotionally because they hadn't won a game while they were here for the Test series and ODIs," Hogg said.

"(I wondered) whether that would have been a big strain on them behind the scenes.

"But they've really turned it around.

"That time where they've had a couple of months over here in Australia has been fantastic for them.

"They're preparing well and they're taking it seriously.

"I think India are going to turn their fortunes around and win the World Cup."