Spin-heavy Kiwis ready for India

Nathan McCullum of Otago is expected to bat in the middle order and utilise his off-spin in Christchurch

New Zealand will use two spinners in tomorrow’s opening Twenty20 international against India in Christchurch.

Black Caps skipper Daniel Vettori confirmed off-spinner Nathan McCullum would accompany him in the XI at AMI Stadium in Christchurch for the opening international match of India’s tour.

“Nathan McCullum has been extremely impressive with what he has done so far in domestic cricket,” Vettori said.

“He had a short go at it against Australia. His batting brings a lot to the table and he is one of the better fielders in New Zealand so he will get another opportunity tomorrow night.

“It will be a massive test for him against an Indian side who will be pretty aggressive against him.”

McCullum is the elder brother of Black Caps wicketkeeper-batsman Brendon.

Vettori was also pleased to see the return of Jacob Oram, although the all-rounder will be playing as a batsman only in the two Twenty20 matches.

“In my opinion, Jacob is the most important player in the team because of his all-round ability,” he said.

“Whilst he is not bringing the bowling aspect at this stage getting him back in the team it just feels better with him around. He’s a world-class player and his record speaks for itself.”

After success in Australia, and fine performances from newcomers Martin Guptill, Neil Broom and Grant Elliott, Vettori believes there is a confident feel around the squad, despite the stiff challenge that lies ahead.

“It’s the confidence of the young guys that drives the group and there are a lot of guys there who have still played under 10 games,” he said.

“But a lot of those games they have won so when we have that feel in the team, coupled with some experienced players, it makes for a side that is confident about its performances.

Daniel Vettori knows New Zealand must crack Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir

“We are hoping to continue with that. The likes of Martin Guptill and Neil Broom have been fantastic in the short time they have been here and we are just hoping that they can capitalise on what they have done so far in a short period of time.”

Vettori feels if his side are to stand any chance of winning, early wickets will be vital.

“Our ability to stem India at the top of the order with (Virender) Sehwag and (Gautam) Gambhir is going to be crucial to our success.

“Sehwag creates a lot of momentum for them at the top of the order. He is such an aggressive player that he can take a game away from a side quite quickly.

“We know a lot of our emphasis is on him and Gambhir with their opening partnership. If we can put some pressure on India early then maybe it gives us a chance. If those guys get away it’s always hard to pull them back in.”

India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni believes his side are not relying on individuals to bring about success, which has allowed them to flourish in all three forms of the game in recent times.

“We don’t rely on a particular batsman or a particular bowler. The whole team is performing. In most of the games everyone has contributed.

“If there is a batsman who has gone for a big score we have batsmen who have scored around them.

“The same if one bowler takes two or three wickets, the rest all contribute, especially the part-timers – they have done their job well.”

Both sides had their final practice on Tuesday, although the fickle Christchurch weather made for a gloomy backdrop for the Indians.

The visitors were also expected to have a fielding practice under lights at the stadium as well to help them acclimatise.

Meanwhile, Andy Moles will have a new assistant coach when the one-day series begins in Napier on March 3.

Auckland coach Mark O’Donnell will join up with Moles and bowling coach Shane Jurgensen for the remainder of the series.

It means Auckland will need to find someone else to see out the remainder of their season. O’Donnell’s contract with the province finishes at the end of this campaign.