McMillan is a staunch supporter of Aberhart

As a medium-pace bowler he played 38 first-class matches in New Zealand, taking 101 wickets and was regarded as a fierce competitor.

But it was his coaching that brought him wider recognition.

Between 1993 and 1997 he led first-class province Canterbury to three Shell Cup (one-day) titles and two Shell Trophy (four-day) titles.

Encouraging youngsters

In his time with Canterbury he helped shape the careers of current Test captain Stephen Fleming, Nathan Astle and Craig McMillan and his appointment was endorsed by McMillan.

"He's a people person and while he is a coach who can be a hard taskmaster, he can also be you friend," the middle-order batsman said.

Yet the 48-year-old headmaster almost called time on his coaching career until former New Zealand captain Lee Germon persuaded him to coach a young Otago side last season.

One of Aberhart's jobs has been to find a way of curing New Zealand of its yo-yo style of cricket.

Aberhart was not one to rush in and make wholesale changes, instead he chose to make the most of what he had at his disposal.

Lou Vincent scored a century against Australia on his Test debut

"It's not as if the team isn't good enough because they frequently demonstrate that they are," he said.

"They all want to be consistent. It's not as if they're trying to run hot and cold."

Aberhart's job has been made easier by the return from injury of match-winner Chris Cairns and the emergence of a crop of youngsters who have taken to international cricket.

The task for Aberhart against England is not only to preserve his unbeaten record but also continue fostering New Zealand's development as a force in world cricket.