Tuesday, February 20, 2007

Can the Black Caps win the Cricket World Cup ?

Why not?

They have received a tremendous boost from the victory in the Chappell-Hadlee trophy. The run chase was great and the team showed that they can beat the best on their day.
However, they need to look at some changes in the way they play.

First Fleming should not open the innings. It is apparent that he has lost the ability to read the new ball well. He may be better off batting 3 or 4 down when the ball has lost its shine. He is still a great batsman but needs to adjust his game.

Ross Taylor and Lou Vincent should be developed as the opening pair. Both of them play courageously and are not afraid of the new ball. They have good techniques and with better training they can shine in the opening role.

Also Vettori needs a good support with a permanent second spinner. Jeetan Patel should not be dropped from any match. He should be given the time to get into stride and study the various batsmen of the other teams. What better way than to play in all matches and keep bowling, which is probably how Vettori became a great bowler himself. And Patel is an asset on the field as well.

McCullum has cemented his place lower down in the order and should be playing like Michael Bevan did, steadying the innings when necessary and accelerating at the right time.

The team should also have a few team building exercises so they become comfortable with each other.

And most important, they should enjoy their cricket and there should be more fun visible on the field.

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