Confidence is high in the New Zealand cricket camp heading into the first test against Sri Lanka starting in Christchurch on Boxing Day.
New Zealand is unbeaten in their last five test series, including wins over the West Indies twice and a win over India.
BJ Watling Photo: PHOTOSPORT
They have also just returned from a drawn series with Pakistan.
The opening bowlers Tim Southee and Trent Boult missed this months limited overs series against Pakistan to prepare for the Sri Lankans and wicketkeeper BJ Watling says the pair are brimming with confidence.
The New Zealand bowler Trent Boult. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
He says they were both fit and well-prepared and they know when to be patient and when to be aggressive and that comes with experience.
Watling is hoping for a pitch with pace and bounce which Boult and Southee can exploit with a bit of swing as well.
New Zealand bowler Tim Southee in action against Pakistan 2014. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
He also thinks there is a place in the side for spinner Mark Craig because of the bounce.
It is likely Neil Wagner and Doug Bracewell will vie for the third seamers spot.
A possible starting eleven in batting order is Hamish Rutherford, Tom Latham, Kane Williamson, Ross Taylor, Brendon McCullum, Jimmy Neesham, BJ Watling, Mark Craig, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner and Trent Boult.
Day one at Hagley Oval on Boxing Day is sold out, but tickets are still available for the other four days.
