Ponting, Richards, Botham back New Zealand to win the Cup

Wellington, March 13, 2015: Three cricketing greats -- Ricky Ponting, Ian Botham and Viv Richards -- have voiced their support for the New Zealand team who they believe can clinch this year’s World Cup trophy. New Zealand's performances so far in the tournament has seen them tipped as one of the genuine contenders. Ponting, who led Australia to lay hands on the coveted trophy in 2003 and 2007, said the chances of the Black Caps have increased immeasurably since bringing in Brendon McCullum as captain, reports the New Zealand Herald. "I think they've come a long way since Brendon's taken over. They seem like a more confident, aggressive-natured team as well than probably they were before." "Anyone who knows Brendon knows what he's like as a character. So, his leadership is starting to rub off on the rest on the team," he said. Ponting praised the balance of the Black Caps side saying beating them at home will be quite difficult. "They're probably the best balanced New Zealand team I can remember in a long time and their record at home, as we all know, is very good. They very rarely lose games or series in New Zealand, so they're in good shape right now. Botham was another who viewed the Black Caps as favourites, saying they would at least make the final of the quadrennial event. "I think their big test will come in the final. I expect them to make the final...probably against Australia, which I think will be the real test, but I don't see why they can't go on and win it," said Botham.