KEY POINTS:
Bowling at the death is no longer a graveyard for the Black Caps, thanks to the change in one-day rules.
The final overs have seen plenty of Black Cap meltdowns over the years. We'd regularly go for 100 runs off the final 10 overs, including up to 60
off the last five, and you don't win many matches with those sorts of statistics.
But the days of the clearly defined all-out final charge are over.
The introduction of two movable power plays means there are mini-charges through the course of an innings.
This has not only reduced the pressure on our bowlers at the death, a place where we have often struggled, but also means that a variety of our bowlers have been forced into dealing with batters on the charge and learning how to cope.
It has been an advantage to the Black Caps and it is one of the reasons why they should head to Australia for the five-match Chappell Hadlee series next month in a fairly optimistic mood.
It's never easy in Australia but our side often lift for the occasion against the old enemy. In our day we regarded these battles in Australia as more important than the World Cup.
While Australia enjoy home advantage, the New Zealand players also relish leaving our more treacherous batting conditions and going to work in Australia where the weather and pitches are consistent.
Another reason for confidence is the impact Brendon McCullum and Jesse Ryder are having at the top of the order.
New Zealand has chosen to deal with Ryder's alcohol problem within the team. Having decided against removing him from the squad and depending on the circumstances, you can expect Ryder to stay even if he has the occasional slip-up. Having come this far, it would be a bit tough if they changed their mind and ditched him.
He has certainly proven what a fine international player he could be if he can get the demons under control.
The beauty of the McCullum-Ryder partnership is that even if they are not staying at the crease for a huge amount of time, they are still influencing the game with their imposing striking. Five overs of these guys are enough to get the innings under way.
This is one of the reasons why Ross Taylor has flourished - he has often arrived at the crease when the bowlers have been under siege. Of course he is also benefiting from the maturity that time brings, and by developing his ability to play on both sides of the wicket rather than his favoured leg side all the time.
If New Zealand's batting can fire, then it should be a great series and one we can win.
