New Zealand's chances of World Cup success will depend on the form and fitness of the imposing figure of Jacob Oram.

The 6ft 6in all-rounder has been in form leading up to the main event, having hit a century and two fifties in the CB series, firing six sixes in a hundred against Australia, and four more in an unbeaten fifty from 33 balls against England.

Oram injured his shoulder in that competition but it did not prove as bad as first thought. With a history of back trouble, he will hope to avoid any further ailments.