Grant Elliott and Luke Ronchi struck unbeaten centuries as the Black Caps clobbered English county side Leicestershire by 198 runs in a one-day warm-up match at Grace Road.
Grant Elliott victorious after hitting the winning runs to send New Zealand into the final of the Cricket World Cup. Photo: Photosport
In preparation for Thursday's first one-day international against England, New Zealand chose to bat first on Sunday before losing openers Martin Guptill (4) and Brendon McCullum (9) cheaply.
Kane Williamson (45) and Ross Taylor (77) steadied the innings before new recruit Mitchell Santner was trapped LBW for 4.
Elliott and Ronchi then took over proceedings with both players finishing 106 not out with Elliott using 78 balls for his century and Ronchi 71.
Chasing the New Zealand total of 374, Leicestershire were all out in the 42nd over for 175.
Mitchell McClenaghan was the best of the Black Caps' bowlers taking 4 wickets for 31 runs, while Santner's left arm spin was economical yielding 2 for 34 from his 10 overs.
Elliott said his team was pleased that all their batsmen got time in the middle and that four bowlers got through ten overs including spinner Santner.
"We've finally got a left armer who actually turns the ball," Elliott quipped in reference to the retired Black Caps great Daniel Vettori.
Santner is yet to play an international match for his country, but Elliott thinks he'll be blooded during the five match series with England, most likely at Edgbaston.
"That's a pitch that turns a bit so we'll assess the conditions and then coach and captain will decide on the team."
Elliott was happy to have combined with his Wellington team mate Luke Ronchi.
"It's most enjoyable batting with him especially when he gets going. Normally, you'd see a lot more sixes from him, but another great innings from Luke."
