Nathan McCullum is determined to be New Zealand's No 1 spinning option heading into the 2015 World Cup in February. Nathan put in a good show against Sri Lanka in the first ODI in Christchurch, picking up 1/38 in his 10 overs while his unbeaten 25 and a 60-run stand with Corey Anderson helped New Zealand over the line by three wickets.
The second ODI is at Seddon Park in Hamilton and it is a surface that has assisted the spinners. Coach Mike Hesson faces a dilemma whether to rest Nathan and play Daniel Vettori or play with two spinners. Looking at the selection issues, Nathan is happy that New Zealand are faced with a problem of plenty ahead of the tournament.
"I think it's a challenge for everyone with the strength in the squad we have got. Everyone's trying to play at their best and put pressure on everyone else and it's only beneficial for the team and squad as a whole when we've got guys challenging for positions," he said.
Nathan credited Vettori for helping him develop as a player and said the team is lucky to have his presence around. "I've learned a lot from him over the years. It's pretty awesome really. We work well with each other. At the end of the day we are part of the World Cup and there are 15 players and a lot of other guys didn't make it. We are here and have got this opportunity and just to be part of it is going to be something special. I'm sure everyone will play at some stage. It's about trying to do whatever you can to make the team the best to be able to win," Nathan added.
New Zealand lead the seven-match series 1-0 and the ODI on Thursday will be a day-night affair.
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