There was worry that the 14 test vs associate group matches would be a bunch of embarrassing thrashings.
I think it wasn't as bad as expected. Ireland of course put it a decent performance in all matches. Kenya put in a respectable show versus England, although the latter brought the score up with 10 overs to spare. Canada also made a decent show of the match versus England.
On the other hand, Bermuda, Scotland and Netherlands didn't do anything to impress against test sides.
Kenya probably could have done a little better but with only three games for each of the eliminated sides it is hard to judge fairly. I wonder what might have been had Kenya bowled and not batted (or taken their chances)
Bermuda were out of their depth, most of the others like Holland, Scotland and Canada never seem to progress and the ICC needs to do something about it. Considering them embarrassing cousins we invite but want shot of at the earliest opportunity will make sure they stay that way
Don't see how you can avoid having a few teams which are just are not up to the standards of the rest so there are always going to be a few thrashings no matter what format you use. Last two World Cup finals are prime examples.
I really enjoy the matches involving the associates. The battle to avoid the wooden spoon is sometimes the most interesting thing to watch.
__________________________________________________ Lies, Damn Lies and Statistics
There is a difference between sides like: Canada, Scotland and to an extent Ireland who are playing armies of overseas born cricketers and the real national sides such as The Netherlands and Kenya.
A rule to clampdown on the Canadian XI of foreigners who moved to Canada most of whom are over 30 anyway is needed. Next world cup we can expect Kenya to be better - Canada are going nowhere.
