NEWS
Follow UsNew Zealand road to the final has been one filled with energy, enthusiasm, and determination. After injury to Lockie Ferguson and an early loss against Pakistan, the odds were stacked against them to qualify for the semi-final stage of the competition.
However, against all odds, the BlackCaps dominated in the rest of their group fixtures to make it to the semi-final. In the semi-final clash against England, New Zealand once again brought their ‘A’ game to the fore, with a stunning win to book a place in the T20 World Cup final against Australia.
Former South African all-rounder Shaun Pollock has stated that it would be a fairy tale ending if New Zealand win the global tournament.
"As far as the final goes, it's a tough one. I think it's going to be a great contest. I think after the two semifinals, it will really be a nice spectacle to watch. I think if I had to say who I would like to win, I think New Zealand have tried so hard and have been in so many finals and semifinals. I think it would probably be a fairytale for them to win," he added.
However, at the same time, the former all-rounder added that it would be a big ask for the BlackCaps to brush past Australia in the final, calling Aaron Finch’s men as the favourites.
"But it's going to be a big ask. Australia have really started to find the formula and got time to gel together as a combination. I would think they will go in as favourites."
Pollock also hailed the influence of New Zealand on the fan base, stating that New Zealand are a second-favourite cricketing country for most people.
"In the past, people used to consider South Africa as their second favourites. You get the feeling around world cricket at the moment that it's the same for New Zealand as well. Everyone wants them to win," Pollock said.
"Winning the WTC final gives them more self-belief to go on a big occasion and try to produce the goods. At this stage, they have got a really good balance of experience and have got the belief to do well in the finals," he added.