Cricket: England able to win World Cup - Gough

DARREN GOUGH has backed England for World Cup glory on home turf this summer.

The tournament gets under way in May, and England's premier strike bowler believes his country can win the event for the first time, despite the disappointing end to their limited-overs campaign in Australia.

Gough sees home advantage as the key to success. "I don't think England are underdogs. We're one of the top four teams in the world and we believe we can win," he said.

"Home advantage will play a big part and it will help us. I think we've only been beaten in a one-day series once in about five years at home, but there are other countries that are going to do well here.

"South Africa are going to be the team to beat. Australia, New Zealand and Pakistan will be there or thereabouts, and we'll be in that pack as one of the favourites."

Gough returned from Australia with his reputation enhanced and he isn't upset at the way England fell flat at the end.

"We did well in Australia until the last six games, and they were all close. We made mistakes in them but we didn't get really beaten, if you know what I mean. We lost due to silly little mistakes," Gough added.