Twelve months ago, New Zealand was in the same situation as they find themselves in at the moment – looking for a coach. Last time the job was won by Northern Districts and former Warickshire batsman Andy Moles, virtually unopposed.
Predictably, in his year at the helm, the Black Caps continued to deliver mediocre results. Although the outcomes didn’t change dramatically in the Moles era, the team’s reputation did.
In the wake of Moles’ resignation, New Zealand cricket now has a much wider and more highly credentialed range of coaches to choose from; Former Black Cap coach Steve Rixon has publicly expressed his desires for the job, and the experienced pair of John Wright and Duncan Fletcher is also believed to be interested.
So one would ask what has changed through another underachieving period for the Kiwis?
Over the past twelve months, many coaches have begun to acknowledge some of the talent around the New Zealand setup that Black Cap sides of the past have lacked.
Over the year, Martin Guptil and Jesse Ryder have consistently showcased their abilities on the international stage and Ross Taylor continues to develop himself into a world class batsman. In Daniel Vettori, the side possesses one of the best tweakers in the world and a maturing captain, Brendon McCullum is re-finding his destructive self and even young Tim Southee is recovering from a drop in form.
Perhaps the biggest factor of all though is Shane Bond who is a world class fast bowler amongst a typically workmanlike attack.
One of the most ironic factors about this entire debacle is that now the coaches are on offer, they are most likely not wanted by the Black Caps. Influential captain Daniel Vettori has publicly stated that he would prefer a coach who is prepared to take a back seat in the team hierarchy rather than dominate proceedings like many mentors (John Bracewell) prefer.
Its difficult to imagine a guy like Steve Rixon or Duncan Fletcher taking that sort of approach to the role. However, this theory has been successful amongst some of crickets superpowers.
Australia (John Buchanan), India (Gary Kirsten) and South Africa (Mikey Arthur) all have head coaches who are happy for their captains to lead from the front.
Ricky Ponting and MS Dhoni have both excelled with the responsibility and Vettori seems keen to do the same.
The early signs are good for the New Zealand skipper who recently enjoyed a rare “away” series ODI triumph over Pakistan and a strong showing in the Champions Trophy in which he is understood to have taken a prominent role in the team management.
In my opinion, John Wright seems the man for the job.
With international experience and distinct tactical nous, he is what is required for this side going forward. Concerns have been expressed over Wrights management skills, but with Daniel Vettori dominating proceedings and manager Dave Currie at hand, their should be no such problems.
e hënë, 16 nëntor 2009
e martë, 14 korrik 2009
The British Open - The contenders and pretenders
As the golfing world heads towards another hugely anticipated major championship sportphobia takes a look at how the world’s premier golfers are shaping up heading into Turnberry.
As usual, Tiger Woods heads into the Championship as the overwhelming favourite to take out the title. Searching for his fourth British open championship, Tiger seems to be nearing his best after a long injury layoff. His win at the AT&T national last week proves his ball striking is close to where he wants it. Come Sunday, Tiger will more than likely be in the reckoning.
When it comes to Tiger’s compatriots, the quality of contenders is perhaps not as extensive as in previous years. With Phil Mickelson out because of his wife’s battle with cancer, it comes down to the likes of Hunter Mahan, Steve Stricker and Jim Furyk who have all found good form on the PGA tour. Kenny Perry is facing his on family issues, despite this; his standing of second place in the fed-ex cup leader board proves that the 48 year old is still in ominous form.
There is an air of excitement amongst British golf media and fans alike that there is a fine crop of British contenders for the 2009 Open Championship. World number three, Paul Casey now has big-time experience and many think a genuine chance to push for a British win. Fancy pants Ian Poulter and countryman Lee Westwood are both quality ball strikers who are bidding to become the first Englishman to win the
Open since Nick Faldo in 1992.
It is impossible to bypass Irishman Padraig Harrington who is gunning for a remarkable third successive British Open. Harrington’s form has been underwhelming coming into the open but he is sure to perk up when he arrives at the beautiful Alisa course at Turnberry. Sergio Garcia always mounts a strong case and the heartbreak of his infamous choke in 2007 may spur the Spaniard on to his first golfing major. Vijay Sing, Henrik Stenson and Camillo Villegas are all quality golfers who have the ability to mount a seriously challenge at the top of the leaderboard.
Amongst the Australians in the field, Geoff Ogilvy looks the one most likely to mount a challenge. The 2006 U.S. Open Champion has risen to seventh in the current world rankings. His win in the World Match-play Championships this year proves he is the best placed Aussie to compete in Scotland. Adam Scott has slumped to a disappointing 43rd in the world rankings. Will the presence of tennis star Ana Ivanovic in his life may be the turning point in his career?
To win at a course like Turnberry, a golfer needs a lot of skill and a little bit of luck. The style of course may suit European players more and the changing wheather conditions could be the making or breaking of a round. This could result in a surprise winner. Perhaps the Shark might wind back the clock or Anthony Kim could finally live up to his hype. But my tip…it’s on the Tiger.
As usual, Tiger Woods heads into the Championship as the overwhelming favourite to take out the title. Searching for his fourth British open championship, Tiger seems to be nearing his best after a long injury layoff. His win at the AT&T national last week proves his ball striking is close to where he wants it. Come Sunday, Tiger will more than likely be in the reckoning.
When it comes to Tiger’s compatriots, the quality of contenders is perhaps not as extensive as in previous years. With Phil Mickelson out because of his wife’s battle with cancer, it comes down to the likes of Hunter Mahan, Steve Stricker and Jim Furyk who have all found good form on the PGA tour. Kenny Perry is facing his on family issues, despite this; his standing of second place in the fed-ex cup leader board proves that the 48 year old is still in ominous form.
There is an air of excitement amongst British golf media and fans alike that there is a fine crop of British contenders for the 2009 Open Championship. World number three, Paul Casey now has big-time experience and many think a genuine chance to push for a British win. Fancy pants Ian Poulter and countryman Lee Westwood are both quality ball strikers who are bidding to become the first Englishman to win the
Open since Nick Faldo in 1992.
It is impossible to bypass Irishman Padraig Harrington who is gunning for a remarkable third successive British Open. Harrington’s form has been underwhelming coming into the open but he is sure to perk up when he arrives at the beautiful Alisa course at Turnberry. Sergio Garcia always mounts a strong case and the heartbreak of his infamous choke in 2007 may spur the Spaniard on to his first golfing major. Vijay Sing, Henrik Stenson and Camillo Villegas are all quality golfers who have the ability to mount a seriously challenge at the top of the leaderboard.
Amongst the Australians in the field, Geoff Ogilvy looks the one most likely to mount a challenge. The 2006 U.S. Open Champion has risen to seventh in the current world rankings. His win in the World Match-play Championships this year proves he is the best placed Aussie to compete in Scotland. Adam Scott has slumped to a disappointing 43rd in the world rankings. Will the presence of tennis star Ana Ivanovic in his life may be the turning point in his career?
To win at a course like Turnberry, a golfer needs a lot of skill and a little bit of luck. The style of course may suit European players more and the changing wheather conditions could be the making or breaking of a round. This could result in a surprise winner. Perhaps the Shark might wind back the clock or Anthony Kim could finally live up to his hype. But my tip…it’s on the Tiger.
e hënë, 20 prill 2009
Who's on their mind?
As the Super 14 heats up at the business end of the competition the five kiwi teams are all still in contention for the title. The consistency of the New Zealand teams has to bode well for the All Black depth this year as Sportphobia takes a look at how Graeme Henry and his brains trust’s first All Black squad for 2009 might be looking.
Props:
Tony Woodcock is the obvious selection at prop and, although he has had his injury worries this year, the Blues’ talisman looks to have sewn up one side of the scrum. The rest of the propping cupboard is looking a bit bare, Crusaders workhorse Wyatt Crocket looks a chance for a bolter. Neemia Tialata will surely be in the thinking of Steve Hansen with his ability to prop both sides of the scrum and Jamie McIntosh and John Afoa look to be the others in the mix.
Hooker:
Andrew Hore enjoyed a fantastic 2008 before succumbing to injury and, in his brief appearances so far this season, his game still looks strong. Line out throwing seems to be his biggest downfall but not much more can be said about his biggest rival, Kevin Mealamu’s throwing either. Outside of the two veterans, chief’s hooker Aled de Malmanche may be a possibility although his team mate Hika Elliott also looks an outside contender.
Locks:
Ali Williams is the obvious selection to take one of the locking positions but the other one is up for much debate. His Blues’ colleague Anthony Boric continues to grow in stature and is an option but, having signed with the NZRU through until 2011, former league star Brad Thorn continues to defy his age as he carries the Crusaders tight five. Thorn has signalled his All Blacks intentions and looks a strong contender. The Hurricanes pairing of Jason Eaton and Jeremy Thrush continue to improve and, along with Highlander Tom Donnelly who is coming along nicely, look the only other possibilities.
Blindside Flanker:
A position that was never settled upon last year, Jerome Kaino looks an option at blindside. The Auckland big man looks to be hitting his straps at the right time and is probably in pole position. Otago bogan Adam Thompson is another option there but is prone to getting penalised. Perhaps this is the time for Keiran Read to be given his All Black turn as he continues to impress captaining the Crusaders in McCaw’s absence.
Openside Flanker:
Only injury is going to deny All Black captain Richie McCaw the number seven spot. But who will back him up will continue to worry All Black selectors. Chief Tanerau Latimer had a limited go on the end on year tour and has had a solid super 14 and looks a candidate. In the way of a genuine fetcher, Scott Waldrom may fancy his chances should horror strike McCaw.
Number 8:
Rodney So’oialo is the incumbent back rower and with his high work-rate and physical presence, is the obvious selection yet again. Liam Messam and Sione Lauaki have both shown promise for the Chiefs but the consistency is lacking for both. Thomas Waldrom has grown immensely now he has a starting spot at the Crusaders and might be in line as So’oialo’s back-up.
Halfback:
Perhaps the position with the most depth in New Zealand; there are realistically five players who could do a good job there for the All Blacks. Chiefs livewire Brendon Leonard is perhaps a nose in front of the pack with his ability to give quick ball. Jimmy Cowan is another contender as he valiantly leads the Highlanders although his discipline is a concern. Andrew Ellis does a good job at the Crusaders and the Hurricanes pairing of Piri Weepu and Alby Mathewson wouldn’t disgrace a black jersey.
First Five-eighth:
After Dan Carter suffered an injury that should put him out of the June internationals and some of the Tri-nations series, the pivotal number 10 spot has become a topic of discussion. With Henry keen on the barnstorming Ma’a Nonu at 12 over another playmaker, the All Black first receiver needs to take control and direct the backline. Stephen Donald was Carters back-up last year but some believe he may have fallen off the pace a bit. Piri Weepu has done a good job for the Hurricanes but perhaps not to test standard. Stephen Brett has had a good but unspectacular year at 10 for the Crusaders and looks the only other in the mix. So consequently, the issue begs the question: will the rugby union allow an exemption to the eligibility rule for the returning Luke McAlister? There is no doubt he is an immensely talented footballer and, being still at a fresh age, he has a lot to offer New Zealand rugby. He often plays in the centres but he has experience at five-eighth and looks a tempting option for the selectors.
Second Five-eighth:
Ma’a Nonu enjoyed perhaps his most consistent year in the black jersey in 2008 and appears the front runner to pin down the spot for another season. His combination with fellow Wellingtonian Conrad Smith outside him is a decisive factor in his favour as he returned to somewhat his best with a double against the Stormers last week. Isaia Toeava possesses the skill set to succeed at 12 if given an opportunity, otherwise Highlander Daniel Bowden keeps improving his football and is an outside chance.
Centre:
Strong but healthy competition occurred last year for the midfield jersey. Conrad Smith is a likeable option. Possessing a cool head, staunch defence and a stabilising attacking influence may just have the wood over young Waikato 13 Richard Kahui. Kahui is more of an impact player with the ability to shake up the opposition so he mightn’t be a bad option for the bench with his ability to play on the wing.
Wing:
The flying Fijians look to be finding some form on the wing at the right time. Sitiveni Sivivatu has been a pivotal factor in the turnaround of the Chiefs’ season and looks to have booked up his favoured left wing. Joe Rokocoko is improving as the season develops but still has some way to go. David Smith has ignited fans in the capital recently and if he continues he may come into Wayne Smith’s thinking. Anthony Tuituvake will be desperate for a decent All Black run this year and, along with Crusader Colin Slade and Cheifs flyer Lelia Masaga, should be names tossed around.
Fullback:
Mils Muliaina looks a shoe-in for 15. After overcoming injury problems he looks solid and unfazed at the back for the Chiefs. Leon McDonald is still playing consistant footy in Christchurch but his age is against him. Cory Jane is getting better for the Hurricanes but still lacks the solidarity wanted for the fullback position-especially at test level-but he may come into the reckoning.
The team:
1. Tony Woodcock
2. Andrew Hore
3. Jamie McIntosh
4. Brad Thorn
5. Ali Williams
6. Kieran Read
7. Richie McCaw
8. Rodney So’oialo
9. Brendon Leonard
10. Luke McAlister
11. Sitiveni Sivivatu
12. Ma’a Nonu
13. Conrad Smith
14. David Smith
15. Mils Muliana
16. Neemia Tialata
17. Kevin Mealamu
18. Tom Donnelly
19. Jerome Kaino
20. Piri Weepu
21. Richard Kahui
22. Isaia Toeava
Props:
Tony Woodcock is the obvious selection at prop and, although he has had his injury worries this year, the Blues’ talisman looks to have sewn up one side of the scrum. The rest of the propping cupboard is looking a bit bare, Crusaders workhorse Wyatt Crocket looks a chance for a bolter. Neemia Tialata will surely be in the thinking of Steve Hansen with his ability to prop both sides of the scrum and Jamie McIntosh and John Afoa look to be the others in the mix.
Hooker:
Andrew Hore enjoyed a fantastic 2008 before succumbing to injury and, in his brief appearances so far this season, his game still looks strong. Line out throwing seems to be his biggest downfall but not much more can be said about his biggest rival, Kevin Mealamu’s throwing either. Outside of the two veterans, chief’s hooker Aled de Malmanche may be a possibility although his team mate Hika Elliott also looks an outside contender.
Locks:
Ali Williams is the obvious selection to take one of the locking positions but the other one is up for much debate. His Blues’ colleague Anthony Boric continues to grow in stature and is an option but, having signed with the NZRU through until 2011, former league star Brad Thorn continues to defy his age as he carries the Crusaders tight five. Thorn has signalled his All Blacks intentions and looks a strong contender. The Hurricanes pairing of Jason Eaton and Jeremy Thrush continue to improve and, along with Highlander Tom Donnelly who is coming along nicely, look the only other possibilities.
Blindside Flanker:
A position that was never settled upon last year, Jerome Kaino looks an option at blindside. The Auckland big man looks to be hitting his straps at the right time and is probably in pole position. Otago bogan Adam Thompson is another option there but is prone to getting penalised. Perhaps this is the time for Keiran Read to be given his All Black turn as he continues to impress captaining the Crusaders in McCaw’s absence.
Openside Flanker:
Only injury is going to deny All Black captain Richie McCaw the number seven spot. But who will back him up will continue to worry All Black selectors. Chief Tanerau Latimer had a limited go on the end on year tour and has had a solid super 14 and looks a candidate. In the way of a genuine fetcher, Scott Waldrom may fancy his chances should horror strike McCaw.
Number 8:
Rodney So’oialo is the incumbent back rower and with his high work-rate and physical presence, is the obvious selection yet again. Liam Messam and Sione Lauaki have both shown promise for the Chiefs but the consistency is lacking for both. Thomas Waldrom has grown immensely now he has a starting spot at the Crusaders and might be in line as So’oialo’s back-up.
Halfback:
Perhaps the position with the most depth in New Zealand; there are realistically five players who could do a good job there for the All Blacks. Chiefs livewire Brendon Leonard is perhaps a nose in front of the pack with his ability to give quick ball. Jimmy Cowan is another contender as he valiantly leads the Highlanders although his discipline is a concern. Andrew Ellis does a good job at the Crusaders and the Hurricanes pairing of Piri Weepu and Alby Mathewson wouldn’t disgrace a black jersey.
First Five-eighth:
After Dan Carter suffered an injury that should put him out of the June internationals and some of the Tri-nations series, the pivotal number 10 spot has become a topic of discussion. With Henry keen on the barnstorming Ma’a Nonu at 12 over another playmaker, the All Black first receiver needs to take control and direct the backline. Stephen Donald was Carters back-up last year but some believe he may have fallen off the pace a bit. Piri Weepu has done a good job for the Hurricanes but perhaps not to test standard. Stephen Brett has had a good but unspectacular year at 10 for the Crusaders and looks the only other in the mix. So consequently, the issue begs the question: will the rugby union allow an exemption to the eligibility rule for the returning Luke McAlister? There is no doubt he is an immensely talented footballer and, being still at a fresh age, he has a lot to offer New Zealand rugby. He often plays in the centres but he has experience at five-eighth and looks a tempting option for the selectors.
Second Five-eighth:
Ma’a Nonu enjoyed perhaps his most consistent year in the black jersey in 2008 and appears the front runner to pin down the spot for another season. His combination with fellow Wellingtonian Conrad Smith outside him is a decisive factor in his favour as he returned to somewhat his best with a double against the Stormers last week. Isaia Toeava possesses the skill set to succeed at 12 if given an opportunity, otherwise Highlander Daniel Bowden keeps improving his football and is an outside chance.
Centre:
Strong but healthy competition occurred last year for the midfield jersey. Conrad Smith is a likeable option. Possessing a cool head, staunch defence and a stabilising attacking influence may just have the wood over young Waikato 13 Richard Kahui. Kahui is more of an impact player with the ability to shake up the opposition so he mightn’t be a bad option for the bench with his ability to play on the wing.
Wing:
The flying Fijians look to be finding some form on the wing at the right time. Sitiveni Sivivatu has been a pivotal factor in the turnaround of the Chiefs’ season and looks to have booked up his favoured left wing. Joe Rokocoko is improving as the season develops but still has some way to go. David Smith has ignited fans in the capital recently and if he continues he may come into Wayne Smith’s thinking. Anthony Tuituvake will be desperate for a decent All Black run this year and, along with Crusader Colin Slade and Cheifs flyer Lelia Masaga, should be names tossed around.
Fullback:
Mils Muliaina looks a shoe-in for 15. After overcoming injury problems he looks solid and unfazed at the back for the Chiefs. Leon McDonald is still playing consistant footy in Christchurch but his age is against him. Cory Jane is getting better for the Hurricanes but still lacks the solidarity wanted for the fullback position-especially at test level-but he may come into the reckoning.
The team:
1. Tony Woodcock
2. Andrew Hore
3. Jamie McIntosh
4. Brad Thorn
5. Ali Williams
6. Kieran Read
7. Richie McCaw
8. Rodney So’oialo
9. Brendon Leonard
10. Luke McAlister
11. Sitiveni Sivivatu
12. Ma’a Nonu
13. Conrad Smith
14. David Smith
15. Mils Muliana
16. Neemia Tialata
17. Kevin Mealamu
18. Tom Donnelly
19. Jerome Kaino
20. Piri Weepu
21. Richard Kahui
22. Isaia Toeava
e premte, 9 janar 2009
Potential - but will it be fulfilled?
Gone are the days of the Flemings,, Astles, and Richardsons of New Zealand cricket. Now get used to the names Ryder, Taylor and Flynn and as the future of the New Zealand batting order goes through a washing machine. As is widely known, world class test batsman are few and far between in this country but there is a feeling emerging that the blackcaps top order might be on the eve of something special. 2008 was another indifferent year for the New Zealand test side, starting with a sensational win over England in Napier, the efforts tailed off as the year went on. A new coach is at the helm, behold Englishman Andy Moles and together with the hand of bearded Jesus (Daniel Vettori) Sonny would hope that things are on the improve but the tiring old follower of cricket in this country might have to be a little patient before this pack of young party goers start to deliver him some runs.
The opening issue is one that no one seems to be able to get their head around. Papps, Cumming, Bell, Redmond, Marshall are all tried and tested names. The next two off the mouldy shelf are impeccable blocker Jamie How and Auckland Veteran Tim McIntosh. You would feel that the selectors are starting to lose patience with the out of form How, but scores aside he looks the technically sound option for the blackcaps looking ahead. Staunch in defence, strong through the covers and possessing a stylish pool shot, How just seems to find a way of getting out. He was promising in the home and away series’ against England but has since petered off with a series of failures mounting the pressure on him with India in the distance. Tim McIntosh on the other hand is the more belligerent batsman. He works hard for his unattractive runs and hopefully for New Zealand he will emerge in Richardson-esque fashion. His test career started brightly with a determined century in Napier but consistency has been a problem for the 29 year old in his domestic career so he will have to keep working for his blackcaps spot.
Since the retirement of Stephen Fleming early last year the vital number 3 spot has been another concern hovering around the blackcap selectors. James Marshall failed miserably there in England before Jesse Ryder made a promising start in Bangladesh and Australia. With stroke maker Daniel Flynn unusually down at five, logic prevailed as Ryder and Flynn had a direct swap in the batting order. In just his second test match Flynn was made famous for the wrong reasons, his teeth getting knocked out by a bouncer at Old Trafford. To his credit he moved on from there and when given a berth at first drop in Dunedin. He didn’t disappoint, making a fantastic 95, agonisingly short of his maiden test century. That innings provided hope to the blackcap fan that a successful first drop may be on the horizon. He looks accomplished at the crease, confident in his ability and importantly he plays to his strengths. His back foot cut shots through the off side are something to behold as well as his exquisite drives. Flynn became a little unstuck when facing the extra pace of Mitchell Johnson in Australia, twice his off stump was knocked over by the extra zip. Although the problem subsided against the ferocious pace of the West Indians, only time will tell if he has overcome it. His mental game is to be admired also. Who knows? Maybe a gutsy lad from Rotorua could turn into a classy replacement for Stephen Fleming.
Ross Taylor is another addition to the current crop of exiting young batsman. 24 year old Taylor had enjoyed a solid start to his international career but not without frustrations. He has cemented his spot as the blackcap’s number four but has the ability to get out regularly to needless shots. In his short career he has already played some very memorable innings’ as well as some ones to forget. Not unlike Big Jesse Ryder his mental game has been frequently critised by all sections of the media, Smithy included. Although he has only been in the side for a couple of years, Taylor has been forced to take on the responsibility of a senior batsman. Looking ahead, captain Vettori will be hopeful he can grow into the role and become a essential part of the blackcap’s top order. Nobody doubts Taylor’s talent nor his potential but some doubt whether he has the batting maturity to become the sensational player that he has show glimpses of, only time will tell.
It’s a tough task to recall someone the size of Jesse Ryder who turned out to be a world class batsman. Some backed him others laughed at the maccas addict but now most realize that he may provide that extra bite and ego New Zealand need in their reconstructed middle order. He announced his arrival on the international stage with a bang as he dispatched the English attack in the ODI series early last year. Then his reputation caught up with him as a drunken Ryder decided it was a good idea to punch a window, well, it wasn’t. Consequently, Ryder started his test career later then he should’ve. Initially batting at 3 he had solid test series’ against Australia and Bangladesh before scoring a flashy 89 in the first test against the West Indies, batting down at five. He is one of those cricketers that you either love or you hate, Ryder baffles crowds with sublime timing on both sides of the wicket an a ability to clear the fence. An issue already heavily criticized about Ryder is his mental game and his ability to get himself out. But one hopes that this will improve as he matures with age. His potential is larger than life, if he can clear up his issues then watch out for this guy, a potentially devastating part of the kiwi outfit in the years to come.
The words are around; talent and potential but that is not what New Zealand needs, what we want are legends, prodigies, records and a lot of wins. That is what these guys will be judged on, the runs. So can they do it? Are the blackcaps on the verge of a special era of batting?
The opening issue is one that no one seems to be able to get their head around. Papps, Cumming, Bell, Redmond, Marshall are all tried and tested names. The next two off the mouldy shelf are impeccable blocker Jamie How and Auckland Veteran Tim McIntosh. You would feel that the selectors are starting to lose patience with the out of form How, but scores aside he looks the technically sound option for the blackcaps looking ahead. Staunch in defence, strong through the covers and possessing a stylish pool shot, How just seems to find a way of getting out. He was promising in the home and away series’ against England but has since petered off with a series of failures mounting the pressure on him with India in the distance. Tim McIntosh on the other hand is the more belligerent batsman. He works hard for his unattractive runs and hopefully for New Zealand he will emerge in Richardson-esque fashion. His test career started brightly with a determined century in Napier but consistency has been a problem for the 29 year old in his domestic career so he will have to keep working for his blackcaps spot.
Since the retirement of Stephen Fleming early last year the vital number 3 spot has been another concern hovering around the blackcap selectors. James Marshall failed miserably there in England before Jesse Ryder made a promising start in Bangladesh and Australia. With stroke maker Daniel Flynn unusually down at five, logic prevailed as Ryder and Flynn had a direct swap in the batting order. In just his second test match Flynn was made famous for the wrong reasons, his teeth getting knocked out by a bouncer at Old Trafford. To his credit he moved on from there and when given a berth at first drop in Dunedin. He didn’t disappoint, making a fantastic 95, agonisingly short of his maiden test century. That innings provided hope to the blackcap fan that a successful first drop may be on the horizon. He looks accomplished at the crease, confident in his ability and importantly he plays to his strengths. His back foot cut shots through the off side are something to behold as well as his exquisite drives. Flynn became a little unstuck when facing the extra pace of Mitchell Johnson in Australia, twice his off stump was knocked over by the extra zip. Although the problem subsided against the ferocious pace of the West Indians, only time will tell if he has overcome it. His mental game is to be admired also. Who knows? Maybe a gutsy lad from Rotorua could turn into a classy replacement for Stephen Fleming.
Ross Taylor is another addition to the current crop of exiting young batsman. 24 year old Taylor had enjoyed a solid start to his international career but not without frustrations. He has cemented his spot as the blackcap’s number four but has the ability to get out regularly to needless shots. In his short career he has already played some very memorable innings’ as well as some ones to forget. Not unlike Big Jesse Ryder his mental game has been frequently critised by all sections of the media, Smithy included. Although he has only been in the side for a couple of years, Taylor has been forced to take on the responsibility of a senior batsman. Looking ahead, captain Vettori will be hopeful he can grow into the role and become a essential part of the blackcap’s top order. Nobody doubts Taylor’s talent nor his potential but some doubt whether he has the batting maturity to become the sensational player that he has show glimpses of, only time will tell.
It’s a tough task to recall someone the size of Jesse Ryder who turned out to be a world class batsman. Some backed him others laughed at the maccas addict but now most realize that he may provide that extra bite and ego New Zealand need in their reconstructed middle order. He announced his arrival on the international stage with a bang as he dispatched the English attack in the ODI series early last year. Then his reputation caught up with him as a drunken Ryder decided it was a good idea to punch a window, well, it wasn’t. Consequently, Ryder started his test career later then he should’ve. Initially batting at 3 he had solid test series’ against Australia and Bangladesh before scoring a flashy 89 in the first test against the West Indies, batting down at five. He is one of those cricketers that you either love or you hate, Ryder baffles crowds with sublime timing on both sides of the wicket an a ability to clear the fence. An issue already heavily criticized about Ryder is his mental game and his ability to get himself out. But one hopes that this will improve as he matures with age. His potential is larger than life, if he can clear up his issues then watch out for this guy, a potentially devastating part of the kiwi outfit in the years to come.
The words are around; talent and potential but that is not what New Zealand needs, what we want are legends, prodigies, records and a lot of wins. That is what these guys will be judged on, the runs. So can they do it? Are the blackcaps on the verge of a special era of batting?
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