New Zealand are on a high after whitewashing the Aussies 3-0 in the recent Chappell-Hadlee series, and this after failing to reach the finals of the tri-series in Australia. This sums up the Black Caps' inconsistency in international cricket. They are a team who have been affected by injuries, too - maybe this is a reflection of their physical conditioning. Also, the squad seems to be imbalanced with a batsman short.

Stephen Fleming is probably the best captain of all the teams participating in the World Cup. If he had an Australia-like team at his disposal, he would have reached greater heights. He is one of the key batsmen who has to play 50 overs for his team to post a competetive score.

Lou Vincent is the other opener. He has been in and out of the team recently but he has the temperament to sweat it out at the highest level.

Ross Taylor is the new kid on the block, who has shown good temperament against the Sri Lankans and Aussies. Will be one of the batsmen to look out for in the World Cup.

Scott Styris has been neglecting his bowling and his recent form with the bat has not been great.

Craig McMillan is back in the team after a lay-off. Despite inconsistent form, his batting is aggressive.

Peter Fulton has been steady without being spectacular and will probably get few outings in the World Cup.

Brendan McCullum is a paid-up member of the explosive wicket-keeper club but he has shown the propensity to graft as well.

Shane Bond is the key player for the Kiwis. Always pumped up against the Aussies, he is fast and accurate and includes other options in his portfolio.

Jacob Oram's swashbuckling century during the tri-series in Australia proved his class. His bowling seems to have tapered off a bit but he is a very useful cricketer all the same.