Danny Morrison backs New Zealand in the World Cup; praises India’s spin arsenal

New Zealand has made it out of the preliminary stages in all except two World Cups. They have an impeccable record against lower ranked teams or those ranked at par, but when it comes to beating the big names, the Kiwis have largely failed. This is why they have never won the World Cup, and the closest they got to it was in the final of 2015, where they lost to Australia.

Former New Zealand cricketer turned commentator Danny Morrison feels that this time around, it is the occasion for New Zealand to step up, move beyond the tag of ‘dark horse’ and lift the trophy. He backs the two pacers Trent Boult and Tim Southee to lead them from the front while also making a point that the team also has other players who can chip in with good performances.

“There is no reason why we should not make the semifinals. I think that would be the team’s goal. England is a small land mass, crappy weather, like New Zealand, very indifferent. The go-to guys are Trent Boult and Tim Southee and there are the bits and pieces guys. Don’t know whether they will go with pace or medium pace sort of guys,” Morrison told Sportstar.

India’s spin arsenal is envious

The 53-year-old also pointed at the balance in the India team with spinners like Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal and Ravindra Jadeja can achieve crucial breakthroughs on batting friendly pitches. Finger-spin will play a crucial role in England, especially in the latter half of the tournament when pitches are expected to dry up a bit. ‘Kul-Cha’ have been very effective for India across pitches in the 28 ODIs they have played together.

“If the weather is great and the pitch is dry, then the spinners come in. The pace of the ball will be important, and to work that out, delivering the correct delivery or funky deliveries at the right time is the key. And India has the variety — Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal and Ravindra Jadeja,” Danny Morrison added.

Morrison picks the semi-finalists

For Morrison, it is India, hosts England, defending champions Australia and one of New Zealand or Pakistan who make it through the league stages.

“The big three (India, England and Australia) have the arsenal. Then New Zealand. And Pakistan, if its batting and bowling click together.”

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