The Kiwis

The One team that I have not talked about thus far is New Zealand.

A bunch of honest blokes who are always up for a fight - this might be a good description for this team. They have never really boasted of big superstars but have always been the eternal dark horses in the WCs. Like the Proteas they could also be called unlucky and it is indeed surprising that they have not even reached the finals ever. They have tended to lose their most crucial matches and with it the tournament.

This time around they have reached the semis and it remains to be seen whether they can convert it into the big one. Allround ability is the strength of this team. They bat way down and have useful variations with the ball. Ofcourse Bondy is the key bowler and if they need to beat the Aussies one feels that Bondy needs to perform. On the batting front the skipper leads the charge along with Styris and McMillan in the middle. The big hitters down the order like Oram and Mccullum are always dangerous. They have been unlucky with injuries and Vincent who was in such good form is a definite loss.

The last word about this team has to be reserved for its captain - Stephen Fleming. One of the most astute and clever captains ever he has managed to use the minimal resources he has to its fullest capability. One of the most long-standing captains in world cricket he has led this team magnificently and has earned world wide respect.

Final Word: If ever there was a captain who deserved to win a world cup then Fleming is definitely the one.

The Home Boys

The West Indies.....

When you think of the West Indies the first thing that comes to mind is fiery pace, the flourishing blade, the panache, the wonderful spirit, and above all a true joy in playing the game.

Alas very few of the above characteristics hold true for the current bunch. Cricket has taken a back seat in the Windies and this is very evident on the field. Darren Powell seems to be the only penetrating force in the bowling attack which otherwise wears a timid look. The batting, as has been for a long time now is dependent on Lara with the others being utterly inconsistent.

To add to their woes there are problems within the team with Lara not happy at being omitted from the selection of the team. Moreover the turnout has been poor which has dampened the spirit of the team.

All in all one can only feel sorry for this team which only has an outside chance of making the semis after their defeat to the Lankans today.

Final Word: Hope the future can recapture the past.