Feb. 19: Down-on-confidence New Zealand could not have hoped for a better draw at the World Cup, as they start with a relatively easy fixture against Kenya. The Kiwis have had their share of fitness concerns ahead of their opener at the MAC Stadium here on Sunday but skipper Daniel Vettori was confident of the entire squad being available for selection.
“Everyone is available. Nathan McCullum was discharged from hospital and we will take a decision on playing him before the toss. Though he is confident we might not risk him as he is required for the full tournament,” Vettori said.
“We have been disappointing but the World Cup is a fresh start and I would rather look at the future,” added the New Zealand skipper.
The Kiwi attack has lacked the cutting edge of late and the induction of Allan Donald as bowling coach is expected to infuse a streak of aggression.
Conditions in the sub-continent will be hard for medium pacers and a lot will depend on their ability to get reverse swing in the end overs. Kenya captain Jaimmy Kamande was impressed with his team’s preparations and promised fearless cricket.
“We have nothing to lose going into the big game and it is not true we have no exposure at this level. I doubt whether the Test teams have worked on the same areas as we have. The results will show,” he explained confidently.
Adjusting to Chennai’s heat should not be difficult for both sides. New Zealand have played two matches here while Kenya are used to the heat back home. A day game will take the dew factor out of the equation and provide the spinners with more options.
Both units are known for their razor-sharp fielding and moments of brilliance in the field could mark passages of play.
With the wicket devoid of grass, a score in excess of 300 is on the cards. The team batting first will enjoy a definite advantage as the strip could slow down a touch towards the end of the second innings.
“We will have another look tomorrow, which could present a different picture. But I think there are plenty of runs in it. If you bowl well you can restrict the runs,” added Vettori.
Kamande did not wish to read too much into New Zealand’s recent form. “They are a good team. They have lost only to the best teams in the world. They are wounded lions and will come hard at us.”
His opposite number saw it differently. “The hardest thing about playing qualifiers is that you do not see much of them. In a way it is a challenge,” said Vettori.