McMillan sets sights on Cup glory

By Martin Gough

We have guys from one to 11 who can, on his day, win a game Craig McMillan

Veteran Craig McMillan says New Zealand are more confident about winning the World Cup than he has seen before.

New Zealand and Australia are the only remaining unbeaten teams in the tournament, which is McMillan's third.

"There is a real underbelly of belief that we can win this. I don't believe that has always been the case at the previous two tournaments.

"The start we have had has given more credence to that confidence," said the 30-year-old batsman.

"But we are also aware that we've got four big games coming up and three in six days against Sri Lanka, South Africa and Australia.

"That is going to be a huge test and a good insight into where we are placed."

McMillan believes batting depth is a big factor in their success, which has seen them beat England, West Indies and Bangladesh, as well as minnows Canada and Kenya.

And he also feels the lack of a single star player works in favour of the Black Caps.

"One of our strengths is that we bat very low down and we are string in the last 10 overs and I think that will become very prevalent in the last few games of the tournament," he explained.

"Some teams rely on one or two players and you know that if you put them under pressure then the rest of the side is under pressure.

"The strength for New Zealand is that we have guys from one to 11 who can, on his day, win a game."

After a strong start to the Super 8 stage in Antigua, the Kiwis have moved to Guyana, where they face Ireland on Monday and McMillan insists they are taking the minnows seriously.

"Ireland have performed very well and we have been very thorough in our preparations for them," he added.

"The fact that they are here in the Super Eights is hugely impressive. They've got what looks like a good all-round team - they bowl well, they field well and they have put up some good scores on the board."