The win against Bangladesh was also satisfactory, but it also raised some queries. Some of their batsmen will need to adjust to the pitch conditions for the big showdown with Australia on Thursday at Cardiff.

It is a game that the New Zealanders can win on a slow and low pitch that will suit the Kiwis more than the Aussies. Scotland gave Australia a good game last Saturday, but their overall performance was not convincing.

The return of Chris Cairns, after a severe calf strain suffered more than two months ago, has the Kiwi morale up. He will be relied upon a lot, if New Zealand have to go some way in this World Cup. His form against Bangladesh suggested that he has recovered well and that'sgood news.

Gavin Larsen, who was the man of the match, also impressed with three wickets and if these two bowlers, as also Dion Nash, bowl well, Australia could be in with a surprise.

Among batsmen, Nathan Astle will have to be more watchful, while Matthew Horne and Craig McMillan will be the others to look upto. Roger Twose impressed in the opening game with his positive approach.

New Zealand and Australia have areas within their game to improve on if they hopes of being crowned world champions.

I have been asked a lot about Bangladesh, who are hoping that their showing in this World Cup will earn them a nod for Test status. Frankly, they will need to work on almost all areas. Their enthusiasm is great, but what they now need is more application in batting. Maybe their bowling, at least in English conditions, can be seen as alright, but that's not enough.

After their huge defeat in the opening match against New Zealanders, they will have to work on their batting if they want to put up fight againstAustralia, Pakistan and the West Indies. Their big encounter will be against Scotland who look reasonably competitive. That encounter is scheduled for next week. If batting is supposed to be Bangladesh's strength, they failed to impress against New Zealand, but their bowlers can take some credit form from their performances.

Scotland, who somewhat embarrassed Australia by batting out 50 overs in their opening game, have already shown that they are not easy meat. Certainly not for Bangladesh.