World Cup, group C: New Zealand roll on past Canada

The ominously impressive New Zealand juggernaut rolls on with a comfortable 114 run victory over a much improved Canada side, at least as far as the batting is concerned.

Canada put New Zealand in to bat on the day that Lou Vincent finally found some form and hit his first century of the tournament.  His 101, hit in a 142 run stand with captain Stephen Fleming for the first wicket, set the platform for the middle order to rum amok.  The pick of the innings was Brendon McCullum's incredible 51 off only 21 balls, featuring five sixes; it's hard to see that knock being beaten any time soon.  They finished on a daunting 363-5.  Canada's bowling was comedy level, with only Bhatti managing to maintain any semblance of a decent economy rate (5.3-1-25-0).

Canada's batting, at least in the top order, was a different story.  John Davison, not wanting to be outdone, fell just short of McCullum's achievement by hitting a fabulous 52 off 31 balls as the north Americans raced to 91-1 in the first 10 overs. However, the momentum could not be maintained and the innings slowly tailed off to finish on 249.  The slow bowlers Daniel Vettori and Jeetan Patel did the majority of the damage for the Blackcaps, grabbing three wickets each.

Canada go home with something approaching rebuilt dignity, while the Kiwis move into the Super 8 round as my tip to win the tournament.  You heard it here first folks!  [lee calvert]