ICC World Cup 2019: New Zealand Can Be World Cup Winners - Brendon McCullum

Former New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum believes his team can go all the way in the ongoing ICC World Cup. New Zealand currently sits at the top of the points table after five wins from six matches. However, one match against India ended in no result and they have 11 points under their belt. Thus, the Kiwis are almost a sure shot team for the last four.

Meanwhile, New Zealand is often rated as the underdogs FOR the ODI showpiece. However, there is no denying the fact that the Blackcaps have always punched above their weight. McCullum had led New Zealand to the final of the previous edition of the World Cup in 2015 but they had lost to their neighbours, Australia in the final in Melbourne.

New Zealand has always punched above their weights.

“Some people say underdogs but probably they don’t see New Zealand play that often. Broadcast-wise they are not seen as often as some of the other teams and hence they are out of sight out of mind thing”, McCullum told AFP.

Meanwhile, New Zealand has always been a consistent side in the World Cup. The Kiwis have qualified for the semi-finals on six occasions. Furthermore, New Zealand has 53 wins in the World Cup event which is second best to Australia, who have 67 wins.

“The World Cup historically for New Zealand has always been very, very good. I think we are second in most wins behind Australia in World Cup matches.” 

Meanwhile, New Zealand, Australia, England and India are expected to be the last four teams of the World Cup. These four sides are currently the top four sides in the points table. Brendon McCullum believes it would be a matter of grabbing the big opportunity in the semifinals.

“I think the weather didn’t help but the back end of this tournament hopefully we will see some really exciting cricket and clear skies, said McCullum. To me, it’s fair to say you are probably looking at England, India, Australia and New Zealand (in the semi-finals). Whoever is able to seize that big moment when it does arise? I’m sure New Zealand will be confident they can.”

New Zealand is ticking the right boxes and they would like to continue in a similar fashion. The Kiwis will play their next match against Pakistan at Edgbaston on 26th June.