Kiwis dream of toppling big brother Australia

By
AFP
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Kiwis dream of toppling big brother Australia
WELLINGTON: Emergency supplies of beige-coloured clothing were being rushed across the Tasman Saturday as the build-up to the cricket World Cup final reached fever pitch in New Zealand.

Brendon McCullum, with his infectious grin, had said before leading his side to a stunning semi-final win against South Africa that they were "having the time of our lives."

His enthusiasm has rubbed off on the nation where rugby union and the All Blacks have traditionally reigned with the Black Caps now receiving unprecedented support as they prepare to face Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Sunday´s final.

New Zealand and Australia may be firm allies politically and form a feared fighting force at wartime, but when it comes to sport they are fierce rivals.

The World Cup showdown dominates the news with every possible angle thrashed from the Dominion-Post´s how to win -- "Settle, then chase key for Black Caps" -- to Radio New Zealand´s pointed reminder of "New Zealand´s darkest day in Test cricket" when rolled for 26 by England in 1955.

Not only is the New Zealand bandwagon packed but the desire to be seen in replica beige clothing has jumped from the quirky to the norm.

Once the domain of a small group of ardent New Zealand supporters known as the Beige Brigade, named after the beige uniform briefly worn by New Zealand ODI teams in the 1980s, now it seems most Black Caps fans want to show their beige support.

New Zealand Herald columnist Toby Manhire took aim at the sledging emanating from Australia even before the final starts with claims that New Zealand will not be able to cope with the imposing MCG.

New Zealand cricketers were once referred to by their full names, such as captain Brendon McCullum and bowlers Trent Boult and Tim Southee. Now, everyone knows who Baz, Boulty and Timmy are.

"Timmy" Southee said the final was like a game of backyard cricket with little brother New Zealand wanting to get one over big brother Australia.

"Obviously Australia have had the wood on us in cricket ... but as a kid growing up it was always Australia you wanted to play against. You always want to get one-up over the big brothers."

In the Press newspaper, columnist Duncan Garner recalled McCullum saying "dare to dream" in a World Cup advertising campaign. (AFP)