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A blunt Martin Snedden didn’t mince words when stating what finally appears obvious after New Zealand Cricket’s criticised plotting for the World Cup took a giant leap forward.

Outgoing NZC chief executive presented as succinct an explanation as any to Black Caps remarkable transformation since unpalatable tri-series exit in Australia recently.

Snedden chided throng at Seddon Park with reminder: “Maybe John Bracewell can coach, maybe Stephen Fleming can captain maybe Craig McMillan can bat.”

Given evidence of the scintillating one-wicket victory against a foe that seemingly lost art of winning less than a month out from their Cup defence in West Indies, Snedden’s argument appeared cast-iron.

Not only had the Black Caps orchestrated a series clean sweep over their neighbours for first time in 33 years, manner of those three scripted triumphs steeled players belief they are genuine contenders in the Caribbean.

“There’s lot of belief and courage to act in this team,” captain Stephen Fleming said. “In the past, New Zealand teams that have been belted around for 340-330, we’ve given up ghost,” he added.

The whitewash earned it outright third on the International Cricket Council’s (ICCs) one-day rankings, a perfect springboard into the World Cup where the Black Caps are seeded to make the semifinals.

Fleming said “we usually go away as dark horses but these performances suggest we’re little bit more than black beauty of tournament.”

Source:The News