Cricket: Ronchi - We've got a big chance

Luke Ronchi says nerves are a good thing ahead of the World Cup. Photo / John Borren.

New Zealand out and out World Cup favourites? That might be pushing it a bit, according to wicketkeeper Luke Ronchi.

That said, he is sure New Zealand can have a big presence in the cup if they maintain their run of recent form.

"I don't know if we'd be favourites, but everyone's saying we're a good shot," Ronchi said today.

"If we go in with a positive mind frame and we know we can beat any side on our day then that's a good thing.

"If we go out and perform as we should we've got a big chance."

New Zealand completed their preparations for Saturday's opening match against Sri Lanka at Hagley Oval with a convincing win over South Africa yesterday.

Now it's down to the real business.

"Everyone's looking forward to it. It's what everyone's been waiting for now, from a player and public point of view.

"Once Saturday hits everyone will be up for it."

Asked if there was a thread of nervous tension in the group, Ronchi said: "There has to be; if you don't (have it) there's someone wrong with you."

New Zealand have six pool games to position themselves where they want to be for the quarter-finals.

"We've got to do what we need to and if you do we should come out where we want to be."