Greatest New Zealand ODI XI of all time

#2 Bowlers

Sir Richard Hadlee spearheads a dream cross-generational bowling attack

Unarguably, Sir Richard Hadlee is the greatest ever cricketer produced by New Zealand. As was the trend during his era, ODIs took a backseat to the primacy of Test cricket. He was one of the very few players of his time to reach exalted heights in both formats. From 115 ODIs, he picked 158 wickets at a stunning average of 21.56 and parsimonious economy-rate of 3.30 with 5 five-wicket hauls. 1751 runs at a strike-rate of 75.50 also stand as evidence of his hitting prowess.

Even though conditions in New Zealand did not offer much to those of his ilk, Daniel Vettori still found ways to contribute consistently with the ball. The left-arm spinner strangled opposition batsmen by adhering to line and length in an unwavering manner. 295 ODIs fetched him 305 wickets at an average of 31.71 and brilliant economy-rate of 4.12. With more than 2000 runs to his name at a rapid strike-rate, he also possessed the capability to swell totals in the end overs.

Kyle Mills' entry into a New Zealand's all time XI may raise a few eyebrows. However, those who have watched him play will attest to his capacity to build pressure by bowling probing spells. In a productive career spanning from 2001 and 2015, the accurate seamer played 170 ODIs and collected 240 wickets at an average of 27.02 and economy-rate of 4.72. Only Vettori has more wickets among all Kiwi bowlers in the 50-over format.

If his ferocious pace struck terror in the hearts of opposition batsmen, Shane Bond's smooth bowling action and ice-cool demeanour captivated the audience. At his peak, he was near unplayable. Just when it seemed like he was on the thresholds of greatness, a slew of persistent injuries proved to be an insurmountable obstacle. Nevertheless, the speedster managed to appear in 82 ODIs and garnered 147 wickets at a scarcely believable average of 20.88 with 4 five-wicket hauls.