Celebrities make their Cricket World Cup picks

The 1992 Cricket World Cup captured the imagine of the country as New Zealand finished round-robin play as the top team before a semifinal exit against Pakistan.

Comedian Ben Hurley, actor Shane Cortese, television presenter Toni Street, Labour MP Grant Robinson and actor Neill Rea have shared their memories of the tournament with the Herald and have made predictions for the latest World Cup on New Zealand soil.

Comedian Ben Hurley says the 1992 tournament was the first time he really go into cricket.

"Everybody got behind it. That was some magic. It probably set me up as a cricket fan for the rest of my life."

For Hurley, the first match between New Zealand and Sri Lanka at Hagley Oval tomorrow falls on an extra special day.

"The opening game's on my birthday," Hurley said. "So I'll be sitting in front of my television with a bucket of chicken and watching that for the day. That's my plan."

Cortese, a self-described "cricket tragic", is unabashed about New Zealand's chances at this World Cup.

"I'd like to see Australia knocked out in the group stage - my wife's Australian - but I would certainly like New Zealand to get to the final. I'd be on the plane if that happened."

Cortese says he has 'tons of memories" of the 1992 tournament.

"We all knew Martin Crowe was a great player but no one knew how innovative he was."

As for the current crop, Labour MP Grant Robinson says they have a great chance to make history.

"I just think if they stick to the plan and have confidence in the team, I think they'll do well."

TV presenter Toni Street says hopefully the Black Caps haven't played their best cricket before the World Cup.

"The good thing about it is that all the top cricketers are really talking this team up too. So if they're positive and they're willing to put their necks on the line and say 'hey they can make the semis, they can make the final' the rest of us should probably get in line and believe them."

For more coverage of the Cricket World Cup from nzherald.co.nz and NZME check out #CricketFever.