With Australia looking shaky (but still very much a threat), New Zealand have joined the World Cup wannabees as real dark horses for the title. With Vincent, McMillan and McCallum batting well and the experience of Fleming & Styris available, they have found renewed confidence with the Chapell-Hadlee triumph. With their strong bowling attack they could be a force to reckon with even without the services of Jacob Oram for the opener. I have a feeling that they will beat England and top the group; good luck guys!

Apart from Bond I would say New Zealand's strength is in the batting.

Batsmen win ODIs and bowlers win Tests.

Well, I don't know. Spinners are increasingly important for economy in ODI's these days and Vettori is among the best. Among others, Oram can be economical; McMillan is improving as a support bowler. There is also the experienced Styris. Gillespie is a bit inconsistent, but can come good sometimes. Tuffey's enforced replacement of Mills could be a problem, but it remains to be seen how well he can support Bond.

This is a significant achievement by NZ. And its a very significnat loss for Australia as well. New Zealnad was palying without some key players and if they come back, they will strengthen the team even more.

Some underdogs have won the world cup in the past. India and SriLanka were regarded lesser teams when they became world champions. New Zealand is definitely the team to watch out for this time. Any team that takes them lightly will get surprises.

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My computer can beat me at chess.....but its no match for me at kick boxing.

Yes, you're right. Come to think of it, a South Africa vs New Zealand final would be very interesting. If they make it that far, both teams would go for the jugular with no quarter asked or given.

In some ways I do think they are dark horses but I do worry that because they are expected to do well that they may fall behind expectations. Their best cricket has come from being under the radar. This may be their best chance as it is for a few other teams to take it out.