Senior New Zealand bowler Tim Southee is adamant the four players not required so far in the World Cup will be ready to contribute if, and when, required.
New Zealand have stuck with the same XI for their four group A games at the cup so far, and are unbeatenand top of group A, and there is a chance that selection policy might continue through as long as they remain in the cup.
It's been tough for seamers Kyle Mills and Mitchell McClenaghan, offspinner Nathan McCullum and backup batsman Tom Latham but Southee had high praise for the way in which they've handled the situation.
"They've been brilliant," Southee, the cup's leading wicket taker with 13 at 13.53 apiece, said today.
"They're training the house down, bowling exceptionally well in the nets and offering a lot as the 'dirties'. Their heads are still up and they're wanting what's best for the team."
Should an injury, or straight selection change, bring any of the quartet into action, Southee said there was a high degree of confidence that they will deliver. None have had any cricket since early February.
"Their attitude and work ethic away from the game has been outstanding, so I'm sure when they get their chance, if it comes in a quarter-final or semifinal, we know they're ready to go. They're banging the door down waiting for their chance."
Southee missed training yesterday with a fever, but said he was heading to the nets later today to get through several overs and is confident he will be ready to face Afghanistan at McLean Park on Sunday.
If there are no changes for that game, it only leaves the final group game against Bangladesh in Hamilton next Friday before the knockout stage begins.
