Lou Vincent of New Zealand, though, will not be complaining. He was woefully out of form until this match and in serious danger of being dropped for the Super Eight but he scrapped his way through the initial overs before opening out and scoring a blistering 101. His opening partnership with captain Stephen Fleming (66) yielded 142 in just 21.3 overs putting the New Zealanders on track to a big total.
Canada did not disgrace themselves, though. Captain John Davison started proceedings with a quick 52 off 31 balls and was well supported by the top order where Ian Bilcliff scored a 50 too. But the total was always too big.
This was the last match for both teams and while Canada will return home, New Zealand will have to start plotting for the next round of matches. Unlike the first round, there are no easy games (barring perhaps the Ireland one!) and the intensity will have to be maintained over six matches. New Zealand goes through with two points irrespective of which team from England or Kenya comes through.
To make things easier, New Zealand will play Ireland in their first Super Eight match unless the Irish manage to upset the West Indies. Unlikely as that may be, it’s possible and that could put them against the home team in the first match of the Super Eight.
Man of the Match, Lou Vincent
On scoring a ton after successive ducks
"It's been good to put my hand up today. I knew it would come if I hung in there."
PHOTOS © GETTY IMAGES
