With all eyes on test cricket right now, attention has turned to the Black Cap's upcoming series against South Africa.
"We're here to do our business, we're here to play cricket, and we're here to win," said Proteas paceman Duane Olliver.
Olliver is one of the more experienced players in the touring squad — which has been widely criticised for being "inexperienced", "understrength" and a "C side".
The test side to play New Zealand has 300 fewer caps than its regular team, with many players staying behind to play in the domestic T20 league.
But for two test player David Bedingham, test cricket is the pinnacle.
"Our coach called me and said if I took my name out of the SA20 draft, I'd definitely tour New Zealand, and my dream is always to play test cricket for South Africa," he said.
"I think it is for most people. I just think when a million dollars comes your way, it's a tough decision."
Hype is firmly fixed on the red ball format, which received a shot in the arm after the West Indies' recent historic series-levelling victory over Australia — they're first on Aussie soil since 1997.
"We played against a lot of the guys in the West Indies A side who played in that match against Australia, so it was quite cool to see them do well 'cause we actually beat them," said Bedingham.
"If they can beat Australia with that team, I'm sure we can cause an upset against New Zealand as well."
Their three-day warm-up match against New Zealand A finishes in Lincoln on Wednesday before the team relocates to Mount Maunganui ahead of the opening test at Bay Oval on Sunday.
The Blackcaps v South Africa test series starts on Sunday with coverage from 10.30am on TVNZ+ and DUKE with first ball at 11am
SHARE ME