Pawar impressed with standard of cricket in WC

"We have surely been treated to a real feast of 50-over cricket with some outstanding games. Few who were in Bengaluru will forget the tied match between India and England or Ireland`s record-breaking triumph against England while the passion shown by the home supporters for the hosts Bangladesh, India and Sri Lanka has been spectacular," Pawar was quoted as saying in an ICC release.

"The standard of cricket has been impressive and there is no doubt that 50-over cricket has a real attraction and an amazing appeal for players, spectators in the grounds and the hundreds of millions watching on television around the world," Pawar added.

The ICC president is happy that those who predicted that days for 50-over format were numbered, have been proved wrong.

"Some people have been predicting the demise of 50-over cricket but they have been proven wrong throughout `The Cup that Counts`. The television audience figures have set new records and the India vs England match was the most viewed game in ICC Cricket World Cup history with multi-millions in India alone tuning in," Pawar added.

The veteran politician and senior union minister of India is happy about the number of people who were present at the ground during games.

"I think the television and crowd figures demonstrate the enduring appeal of the 50-over game and I have no doubt that it will continue to grow from strength to strength in the future."