New Zealand, Australia in a high intensity game

Auckland, February 26

A hostile crowd buoyed by New Zealand’s perfect start to the World Cup is set to turn Eden Park into a bear pit for visiting Australia on Saturday, but all-rounder Shane Watson is “excited” by the prospect of a rancorous reception.

Both countries’ fans have eagerly awaited the fixture, the first between the trans-Tasman Sea rivals in nearly two years and one likely to go a long way in deciding top spot in Pool A, which offers a more favourable position in the knockout rounds.

“I know Saturday is going to be hostile from the times I’ve played here before,” said Watson, who has played three times at Auckland’s main venue. “I certainly know we’re not favourites. That’s the exciting thing about going out here. We know we’re not very welcome. Players and fans try to do everything to prevent us winning.”

Eden Park has long been a house of pain for Australia’s national rugby team, but their cricketers have fared better in the modern era, beating the hosts there in two of the last three One-day internationals. The last ODI was back in 2010, however, and a lot of water has passed under the bridge.

New Zealand have become a formidable unit over the past 18 months and head into their fourth match on the back of an eight-wickets win over England.

Hadlee brands Boult, Southee Kiwis’ ‘best ever new-ball combination’

New Zealand fast bowling duo of Trent Boult and Tim Southee has been branded as the nation's ‘best ever new-ball combination’ by legendary all-rounder Sir Richard Hadlee. — Agencies