Tim Southee credits coach Shane Bond for super show

Tim Southee

Wellington, Feb 20 (IANS) New Zealand pacer Tim Southee on Friday credited bowling coach and former quick Shane Bond for his record-setting feat in his team's eight-wicket thrashing of England here.

Right-arm swing-bowler Southee (7/33 in nine overs) ripped through the England batting to restrict them to a dismal 123 all out in 33.2 overs at the Westpac Stadium. It was New Zealander's best bowling in One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and the World Cup and the third best by any bowler in the tournament's 11 editions.

His superb display set up the tournament co-hosts' comprehensive victory, which they completed in just 12.2 overs.

"Shane Bond has been great. He gives us a lot of confidence. A lot of work he does behind the scenes," said Southee who was adjudged Man-of-the-Match.

The 26-year-old said at the post-match press conference that he was privileged to be part of a good bowling unit and enjoyed the camaraderie with his fellow wicket-takers.

"We have been bowling well as a unit together. Just that today everything fell together," he said. "As a player, you have a bit of a niggle any time, but with the work that Chris Donaldson has done with us, we are a pretty fit unit. Another great team performance."

Southee was particularly pleased to achieve his record-setting feat in his country in front of his home fans.

"A packed house, pretty special to come out in front of them," he said.