Moody backing for Black Caps

Tom Moody © Getty Images

Sri Lanka coach Tom Moody believes a tough tour of Australia could bring the best out of New Zealand’s out-of-form batsmen.

The ex-Worcestershire and Australia batsman saw his side draw 2-2 with the Black Caps in their one-day international series this week and believes they are capable of coming good in time for the World Cup in March.

Moody thinks the Kiwis’ trip to Australia - where they will also face an England - can give the batting order vital time at the crease.

Moody, linked with the Australia, New Zealand and England coaching jobs in recent weeks, said: "I don't think they've got too many major problems. They've got the talent here and when you get those guys back on deck it really sorts the balance of the side out.

"It's easy to point the finger at the batting now but you might find in the CB Series the likes of (Ross) Taylor or (Hamish) Marshall suddenly establishes themselves as a top-notch international player.

"Australia is a hard place to tour for any team, particularly with a team as hungry as they are at the moment.

"It will be good tough cricket but Australia will obviously be the dominant team in the contest."

Sri Lanka and New Zealand shared the Test, Twenty20 and ODI series after rain washed out the fifth ODI at Hamilton.