Andrew Alderson

New Zealand's men's and women's sides failed to come close to being great in 2017

It was an up-and-down year for New Zealand, marked by a change of captaincy, the death of a legend, and a couple of impressive debuts

New Zealand exceeded expectations in most departments, and their showing in the World Cup was hugely heartening

They were in front halfway through the one-day series before they lost the plot a bit

With a 199-run second Test victory over England at Headingley, the current New Zealand side added evidence to a case which suggests this is the country's best Test era under the captaincy of Brendon McCullum and stewardship of Mike Hesson

If they keep playing the way they are, teams will be lining up for series against them

England will be no pushovers at home - KP saga or not - but this New Zealand side is possibly the best to have represented the country

Why Kane Williamson could be the X factor for New Zealand at the Cricket World Cup.

In home conditions under the astute man-management of coach Mike Hesson and captain Brendon McCullum, New Zealand have a logical chance of moving into uncharted territory, namely the Melbourne Cricket Ground on March 29 for the final

Away Test wins, rescue acts, ODI series victories against top teams and a captain leading by example: New Zealand have reasons to feel bullish

Brendon McCullum's runs, leadership and self-belief have been instrumental in rescuing New Zealand cricket from its lowest ebb

The coach has formed a balanced Test side and created a stable environment of professionalism and effective communication

They could look to pushing Watling up to No. 6, and bringing Wagner back on a track that isn't likely to offer much to spinners

Jimmy Neesham's performance in Jamaica means the selectors will have some head-scratching to do over him and Corey Anderson

Mark Craig's debut figures made the headlines, but other bowlers, and batsmen not named Taylor and McCullum, also contributed to New Zealand's Sabina Park victory

To be considered one of the best teams in the world, New Zealand must play spin with more surety on the subcontinent

Featuring McCullum, Taylor, Boult, Southee and a support cast of team-mates, coaches and fans

New Zealand are keeping the faith in their opening pair and legspinner, but they are yet to prove their consistency at the top level

New Zealand's latest power hitter is only 23 but he has overcome a series of challenges, including debilitating injuries, to get this far

It was an improvement on 2012's annus horribilis but New Zealand's search for consistency continues