There is little doubt that Brendon McCullum's captaincy has been one of the key elements to the Black Caps' runners-up finish at the Cricket World Cup and their rise up the one-day rankings and coach Mike Hesson is hoping that's not about to end.
The Black Caps' captain Brendon McCullum bowling during the Cricket World Cup. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
McCullum's name has been mentioned as one of those who could look to end their one-day career following the World Cup final defeat.
Coach Mike Hesson feels they'll have a strong team for some time to come and hopes McCullum will be a part of it.
"I won't be twisting anyone's arm I think it's important that we've got people who really want to play and we'll find out in the next wee while who those are but Brendon's been huge for us and the guys love to play for him so yes we certainly hope he's around."
Hesson said he isn't expecting to lose too many players following their World Cup final defeat and believes he'll have a strong one day side for a while.
It has been suggested by commentators that a number of players could decide to hang up their one-day bats in the coming weeks.
Hesson isn't so sure and he feels they'll be strong at the next World Cup in 2019
"You know there's the odd old stager that added a heck of a lot to the campaign but we've got a young crew a lot of guys aged between 22 to 26 that in four years time should be in their prime."
New Zealand is fourth in the ODI rankings.
The next assignment for the Black Caps is a tour of England in May and June.
