New Zealand has been rated as one of the 'dark horses' of the World Cup. That's mainly because of their 5-2 drubbing of India at 'home' recently. Their captain Stephen Fleming too is gaining respect for his astute leadership. He spoke exclusively to Ashish Magotra on his team's chances, and controversies surrounding the team's match in Kenya, just before New Zealand's opening match against Sri Lanka at Goodyear Park, Blomfontein. Excerpts:
Do you see new trends emerging during this World Cup?
I don't think there will be lot of innovations.
Is it going to go back to the old days... to specialists doing specific jobs?
I think the game has changed now. With the one bouncer per over rule, the bowlers have more of a say now. The bouncy wickets in South Africa will help the bowlers play a bigger role.
Your first three games will decide your chances in the World Cup...
Yes. The first few games will be crucial. The longer the tournament goes on, a bit of fatigue sets in and the chances of players picking up injuries increases.
Chris Cairns has always been prone to injuries. How do you view his role?
He will play a big part in our campaign.
Will he bowl?
He may, later on, if we progress in the tournament. Not in the initial stages.
Who do you think are the favourites for the World Cup?
There are six or seven sides with a good chance. But right now, Australia and South Africa are dominating. But there are four or five other sides who have had a good run in the last month or so.
What are the strong points of your side?
Well, we are a good fielding side; we have good all-round capabilities and a couple of match winners. There's pace in Shane Bond, a good spinner in Daniel Vetorri, a good all-rounder in [Chris] Cairns and a decent batting line-up.
Do you thing Daryl Tuffey will be crucial in your plans?
Yes. He got a lot of confidence after his great display against India at home recently. I think he will enjoy bowling in the company of Bond and Jacob Oram. I back him big time.
Do you think your batting is a little suspect?
I don't think so. Now that we have a good bowling attack we are able to defend scores that we put up. We also bat very deep; it has been like that for a long time.
New Zealand is not going to Kenya. Will that put you at a disadvantage?
It is a disadvantage to the World Cup. It's a sad situation to have at cricket's premier showpiece. Sure, we will be affected, but there are bigger issues at stake here.
Do you think it was the right decision?
That is not for me to comment. It was New Zealand Cricket's decision. We will leave it at that.
