Cairns will inspire us, says McCullum

Chris Cairns's inclusion in the New Zealand one-day side for the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy has come as a welcome relief to many, perhaps none more than Brendon McCullum, the New Zealand wicketkeeper.

McCullum described Cairns as an iconic figure in New Zealand sport and believes that he is far from finished in cricket. "It's great to have him back," McCullum told the New Zealand Herald. "I know he found being left on the outer very hard, particularly in view of the fact he wasn't injured; it was just that he wasn't required."

Tension between Stephen Fleming, the New Zealand captain, and John Bracewell, the coach - there were murmurs of Cairns being a disruptive force - may have added to New Zealand's 0-4 drubbing in a one-day series in South Africa, but Cairns's absence was a more likely factor. McCullum added that Cairns's return would undeniably bring a greater sense of self-belief to the dressing room. "He's the sort of guy who's great to have on your side. From our perspective it's brilliant he's bounced back, because he's one of our most experienced players. He brings a sense of reassurance to the team and he also projects an element of intimidation".

With Fleming missing the first two matches of the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy due to surgery, Daniel Vettori, New Zealand's premier spinner, will lead the side, with Nathan Astle as vice-captain. McCullum felt that in this situation having Cairns back is all the more important for the side, given his experience. "Flem's been New Zealand cricket for the past 10 years, so to go into a series without him now is a bit different, to put it mildly," said McCullum. "But Daniel's a very smart person and a good leader, and I think he'll offer something completely different from Flem. It's up to us to get in behind him and support him every inch of the way."

Australia have had the better of New Zealand in the recent past, but McCullum said that this was an opportunity for the team to put the disappointment of the South Africa tour behind them. "I'm pretty excited. This year we know we're the underdogs but, at the same time, we know we've also got a great chance to redeem ourselves," he said. "It's a good opportunity for us to get up off the canvas after the South African series, and this is looking like the ultimate challenge - at home against the best side in the world."

"The more we play against Australia, the better we'll get; that's what happens if you regularly measure your game against the best in the world," he added. "It can only help and speed up our development, and that's one of the great things about this contest."