Brendon McCullum’s aggressive leadership as much as his thunderbolt batting makes him a vital cog in New Zealand’s flourishing World Cup campaign.

That assessment comes from Tim Southee, the other stand-out figure in the Black Caps’ eight-wicket dismantling of England.

His high-flying team will want the good vibes to continue after they virtually guaranteed themselves a quarter-final at the same Westpac Stadium venue in four weeks’ time.

The hosts made it three wins from three in their pool, after unfurling another dominant performance with the ball.

Southee’s vicious outswingers bagged a New Zealand record 7-33 as England collapsed for 123.

Brendon McCullum’s brutal 74, featuring seven sixes, meant the contest ended inside 13 overs and underlined his status as one of the world’s most dangerous batsmen.

Southee says McCullum’s front-foot approach to batting is mirrored by his captaincy style, which began from ball one as a sizeable slip cordon took position.

“We’ve seen for however long Brendon’s been in charge, he’s an aggressive captain,” Southee said.

“As bowlers, that gives you the confidence to go out knowing the captain’s right in behind you.”

After bowling openers Ian Bell and Moeen Ali with stellar deliveries, Southee soon returned for a second spell which claimed five scalps from four overs.

He says McCullum took a punt by backing him to rip through the tail rather than being held back for the death.

“Brendon thought it was a chance to attack and I guess put the foot down.

“It’s one of those moves when he makes the play.”

New Zealand have dismissed their opponents in nine of their last 10 ODIs, including World Cup conquests Sri Lanka and Scotland. Most of those innings have ended well inside the distance.

Fielding has played its part in those performances and Southee again singled out McCullum for praise, saying teammates can’t help but be inspired when they see his 33-year-old frame tumbling around the field.

They will desire something similar when the Black Caps face co-hosts Australia next up in Auckland on February 28.

Southee hopes the crowd at Eden Park matches the noise from Wellington’s sellout which he described as the loudest he’s played before at home.

“The World Cup is something you have to embrace,” he said.

“It will go quickly and I think if you don’t enjoy it, in time you’ll probably kick yourself.”