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Untitled Document
 We have the spin firepower: Fleming
10th Apr 2007 15:37 IST
Agencies
New Zealand skipper Stephen Fleming says Daniel Vettori's irresistible bowling performance in the World Cup Super Eights clash against Ireland has demonstrated the "firepower" his team has in the spin department.
Vettori claimed 4/23 as the Black Caps, defending a strong total of 263/8, skittled out the Irish for 134 in 37.4 overs at the Providence stadium in Georgetown on Monday.
"Sure it has sent a message out to other teams. Unlike in the past, we don't have just one spinner now. There is also Jeetan Patel. We have enough firepower there," Fleming said after the 129-run win.
Fleming also praised Peter Fulton and Brendon McCullum.
Fulton, filling the opener's spot in the absence of Lou Vincent, hit a patient 83 that saved the side the blushes as wickets kept falling regularly at the other end.
McCullum then smashed a 37-ball 47 as 74 runs came from the last 10 overs.
"Things have not been going well for Fulton but he helped us today to competitive score. McCullum is a class batsman and he really stamped his class today."
Man of the match Fulton was satisfied with his knock.
"It was a different role for me and it was nice to contribute to a win," he said.
"The first 20 overs were difficult. Full credit to the Ireland bowlers, they kept the pressure on us. But I was able to provide the platform and we managed a good total."
Ireland skipper Trent Johnston said his side was still learning to stop the runs in the closing overs.
"After the first 10 overs, we really kept them down. But the last 10 overs there were on top of us again. We have had problems in handling those overs, we are working on that." |
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