New Zealand, one of the Cricket powers in the world cricket, has not reached the final yet in any World Cup Cricket tournament. However, recently they whitewashed Australia in the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy 2007. In the three (ODI) match series, New Zealand won the last two matches chasing 300 plus score- a very rare feat in World Cricket. So, it is something special for New Zealand team as they did it against Australia and for sure, the confidence they got from this series will help them in the upcoming World Cup Cricket 2007. Uncertainty is really an inevitable thing in Cricket. Just one month ago, Australia was regarded as the top favorite team for the upcoming World Cup Cricket 2007 in West Indies. However, at this moment, it is clearly that South Africa and New Zealand both are not less favorite than Australia; rather to some extent, they are more likely to win this World Cup- at least South Africa is. Since I started watching cricket, I have been always noticed that New Zealand always has a balanced team but unfortunately, they could not live up to the expectation. However, this time, it is a good chance for New Zealand to win their first ever World Cup. New Zealand reached the semi final for four times in the history of World Cup Cricket but could not make into the final even once.
The most important thing is that most of their players are now in good form at this moment and they have some match winning players who single-handedly can win the match such as Peter Fulton and Ross Taylor who have little experience in the international level but have a lot of potential. On the other hand, batsmen like Stephan Fleming, wicket keeper Brendon McCullum and Craig McMillan are all now going through a good form which can be dangerous for their opponents.
On the other hand, if you look at their bowling line up you can see Shane Bond, one of the most influential fast bowlers at the moment in World Cricket. and Daniel Vettori is one of the consistent left arm spinners of today’s cricket, who can play an important role in West Indies during the World Cup Cricket 2007. Moreover, I think two all rounders Scott Styris and Jacob Oram will be very important for the team. For some players including New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming, this world cup will be the last World Cup Tournament. So, it is a big chance for the New Zealand team to show due homage to their long serving captain.
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