New Zealand confident in Wills Cup (22 October 1998)

22 October 1998

New Zealand confident in Wills Cup

by Zahid Newaz in Dhaka

New Zealand is confident of making the final eight in the Wills International Cup by defeating Zimbabwe in the lone pre-quarter final on the inaugural day of the tournament on October 24.

"Zimbabwe is an experienced team ... We are a young side but very strong. Our middle-order is more than useful," said Stephen Fleming, skipper of New Zealand who reached here on Tuesday night.

Addressing a press conference at Hotel Sonargaon Wednesday morning, he said New Zealand beat Zimbabwe many times and there are so many "yes" now to beat again. About the Wills International Cup, Fleming said it is the top competition in a tough situation as the game of uncertainty will be played on knock-out basis.

Fleming termed the tournament as "anybody's game" and mentioned Australia and India as favourite. "Sri Lanka is also," he added. About New Zealand's chances, Fleming said "We can't have another Richard Hadlee ... but we have promising players and we are a good side."

John Graham, the manager of Kiwis team, termed his side as very young but said they are developing fast to play in international level and they have ability to defeat anyone. He said fielding is the strongest department for his team, which is very essential for one-day cricket. "Besides Fleming, we have some other good batsmen like Astle, McMillan and Chris Harris".

About ICC's bid to create fund through the tournament for the development of cricket across the world, Graham praised the initiative terming it as a very good programme. Replying to a question, the manager said New Zealand doesn't believe in two separate teams for test and one-day cricket.

When asked about Bangladesh team, he said they have not watched their matches when they (Bangladesh) were touring New Zealand as "we were in Australia at that time."

Stephen Fleming (Captain), Geoff Allott, Nathan Astle, Mark Bailey, Matthew Bell, Simon Doull, Chris Harris, Matthew Horne, Craig McMillan, Shayne O'Connor, Adam Parore, Alex Tait, Daniel Vettori, Paul Wiseman.

Steve Rixon (Coach), John Graham (Manager), Mark Harrison (Physio), Ashley Ross (Technical Advisor) and G Enoka (Player Coordinator).

Source :: CricInfo365