Steve Waugh says Australia appear ‘destined’ to be joined in the World Cup semi-finals by England, India and New Zealand.

Defending champions Australia currently head the World Cup group stage but have played one game more than most of their rivals.

India and New Zealand are the only two unbeaten teams and hosts England are also well fancied to progress as the No. 1 team in the world.

Sri Lanka, West Indies, South Africa, Bangladesh and Pakistan will all be hoping to force their way into contention but Waugh believes the current top-four will progress.

Reflecting on Australia’s 87-run win over Sri Lanka on Saturday, Waugh told ICC: ‘It was another positive step for a team that seems destined to be joined in the semis by England, New Zealand and India.

‘Each of these teams will be fine tuning and gathering impetus and knowledge before a final week where they only need to win two games to stand aloft.

‘It could come down to one individual who leaves his mark and creates a legacy for himself and his team.

‘Australia have enough ammunition to do this but so do the other contenders. It will be enthralling to watch and I can’t wait.’

Australia captain Aaron Finch scored a superb century at the Oval on Saturday as the defending champions proved too strong for Sri Lanka.

And former skipper Waugh added: ‘To win a World Cup your captain needs to lead from the front, either by actions or in words. Right now Finch is excelling in both.

‘Encouragingly Australia’s big match players are all in good form with Steve Smith searching and closing in on the rhythm and unorthodox creativity that bamboozles opposing attacks.

‘Glenn Maxwell the renowned match winner is threatening to live up to his reputation and his 46 off 25 balls followed by a 10 over spell for 46 runs give Australia two players in one when he can focus the mind.

‘In Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins Australia have the best opening bowling combination at the tournament and their fitness will be a crucial ingredient to the chances of lifting the trophy.’