Melbourne--Key men ahead of the World Cup final between Australia and New Zealand at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday:
Australia
Steve Smith
In a rich vein of form since his switch to No.3 after Shane Watson's demotion to lower in the batting order and has four consecutive scores above 50, highlighted by his last start 105 off 93 balls in the semi-final victory over previously unbeaten India.
Smith has all the shots, both conventional and quirky, to keep opposing bowlers on their toes as they try to restrict his fidgety high-scoring tempo.
He is also influential in the field and has taken some exceptionally athletic catches and he insisted on skipper Michael Clarke going after a review for a caught behind of Ajinkya Rahane (44) that was confirmed by 'Snicko' and given out at an important stage in the India semi-final.
New Zealand
Brendon McCullum
Much rides on the New Zealand captain setting a good foundation for the side with his fearless batting at the top of the innings.
McCullum has made four fifties in the tournament, including a frenetic 77 off just 25 balls with eight fours and seven sixes against England and his pulsating scoring tempo eases the pressure on those who follow.
He is the fulcrum of the Black Caps, inspiring his team with a lead-by-example approach as New Zealand chase their first World Cup crown.
His toughness is legendary: he took a nasty blow on his unprotected left arm from Australia's demon fast bowler Mitchell Johnson but, after lengthy treatment on his swollen forearm, batted on.
AFP
