Paceman Tim Southee says nothing changes for the Black Caps as they back up from downing the world’s top-ranked one-day outfit to facing one of cricket’s minnows.
After their dramatic one-wicket win over four-time champions Australia in Auckland, New Zealand next meet World Cup novices Afghanistan in Napier on Sunday.
But Southee says the Black Caps can’t afford to ease off simply because Afghanistan are lesser-recognised opponents.
“We still have to stick to our game plan and our brand of cricket, which has been working for so long now,” he said on Thursday.
“Nothing changes from our point of view just because a side is not a top-tier nation.”
New Zealand have won their four matches so far and, with Bangladesh to come after Afghanistan, are in great shape to top pool A ahead of the quarter-finals.
Their bowlers have played a significant role in what Southee has described as “a dream start” for the co-hosts.
Southee himself has led the way with a tournament-high 13 wickets, including the best figures so far of 7-33 against England.
Fellow quick Trent Boult, who took 5-27 against Australia, is second equal among the most prolific wicket-takers with 10, while spinner Daniel Vettori is in the top-10 as well with his eight scalps.
Boult has bowled the most maidens with six, two ahead of Southee.
Vettori’s ability to keep the batters in check is shown by an economy rate of 3.33, the best among bowlers who have operated for more than one innings.
Southee said the Black Caps’ attack as a group had been performing well for a while and their familiarity with home conditions was a help.
They had been able to get the ball to swing for long periods, which was unusual for one-day cricket, but he didn’t have an explanation as to why.
“Whether it’s the overhead conditions or whether the balls are staying in reasonable nick, I can’t put my finger on it,” he said.
“There are going to be times when it’s not swinging, so we are going to have to find other ways to take wickets.”
The Black Caps have so far fielded an unchanged 11 and one question is whether the players in the wings – Tom Latham, Nathan McCallum, Kyle Mills and Mitchell McClenaghan – will get game time before the quarter-finals.
Southee said the quartet had been training the house down and he was confident they would step up when their opportunity came.
“They’re wanting what is best for the team, and their attitude and work ethic have been outstanding,” he said.
“They’re working very hard behind the scenes and banging the door down waiting for their chance.”
