London: In their traditionally under-stated fashion New Zealand have been content to stay in the background before the two-test series against England. While the hosts’ buildup has been overshadowed by the axing of coach Peter Moores and more controversy over Kevin Pietersen, the Kiwis have quietly gone about their preparations. The New Zealand players do not even have to report for duty until two days before the first test at Lord’s starting on Thursday because of their Indian Premier League commitments.
But they will be full of confidence having enjoyed two years of almost unbroken success since they were dismissed for 45 by South Africa in Cape Town in early 2013. In 2014 they won five tests in a year for the first time and have climbed to third in the world test rankings.
With Brendon McCullum setting the tone at the top of the order with astonishing innings of brutal aggression, they progressed to the World Cup final for the first time this year before succumbing to co-hosts Australia in Melbourne.
Leading from the front in all forms of the game, McCullum has become the most innovative and enterprising captain in international cricket. Tim Southee and Trent Boult have been acclaimed as the best opening attack to represent Kiwis.
