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When former team-mate of Stephen Fleming, Adam Parore used his column in the New Zealand Herald to demand a change of captain after a raving exit of New Zealand from CB series and the Kiwi public was showing its ire openly, for a moment it looked as if Fleming’s long-established empire was teetering and was on the verge of collapse, just before the mega event of world cup.

Now, with in no time, after two back to back stunning wins against defending world champions Australia, his position is as secure as it’s ever been like a house. One may point out the glaring abscene of Ponting, Gilchrist, Lee, Clarke and Symonds, but one can’t deny the spirit of the victories that has reinvigorated the public all around the world. And besides in BC series, England defeated a powerful Aussie side. Anyways, this has created a new aura before the world cup, and it is pretty much open now. Anyone can beat anyone now, and lift the trophy.

Though each and every Kiwi batsman was a treat to watch. Ross Taylor, was the pick of the batsmen. At the eden park, 25,000 rapturous fans went crazy, when he thrashed Australian bowlers without any mercy and respite. It was really fantastic to watch Kangroos chasing the leather all over the park in utter bewilderment. Ross Taylor, marks a new breed of cricketers in New Zealand’s team. He is aggressive, dynamic, proactive and fearless. These are the qualities which are needed most in limited over games. The polynesian star, Ross Taylor, beacons the new hope of Kiwis.

Another heart-warming news for New Zealanders is the return of Fleming’s good form. Lou Vincent, who is ironically known as “Human-Pendulum” in his homeland, due to his inconsistent performances, is on the up-side nowadays, and New Zealand would certainly want him to remain at that atleast till the world cup is over. Shane Bond has always shown a lots of promises, but just now he seems to catch fire. His strike bowling was magnificent in the match.

In a nut shell, New Zealand bagged the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy in a thrilling and scintillating run chase with five wickets and eight balls to spare. Taylor’s match-winning knock of 117 from 126 deliveries and Peter Fulton’s knock of 76 not out will be long remembered. The looks of enjoyment and satisfaction on the faces of the Kiwi lads, knowing that they had scrapped and fought so hard for this, is the real highlight for me.