The resurgence of Craig McMillan

'He's got the mistakes out of his system' - Hadlee on McMillan

Lynn McConnell

October 18, 2003

New Zealand selection manager Sir Richard Hadlee was party to the decision to drop Craig McMillan from the tour of Sri Lanka earlier this year. The break seems to have done him a world of good. He looks refreshed, re-energised and is back to scoring runs. Two fighting half-centuries in the first Test was followed by the century, his sixth in Tests. Hadlee, who watched the match on television from his home at Christchurch, is delighted.

On McMillan's batting: His technique has improved, he's got the mistakes out of his system. He's watching the ball, and playing it much later. He's acknowledged that the enforced break had been to his advantage. I have contacted all the four century makers, either on the phone or on text.

On the ability of New Zealand batsmen to handle spin: I would have settled for 400, but 630 is brilliant. The fact that we have been able to score so highly in Asian conditions, on this tour, and earlier in Sri Lanka shows that our batsmen have improved technically. It is particularly pleasing because the Indian spinners have had a complete hold over New Zealand batsmen. So many players scoring centuries is a proof of growing maturity.

© Cricinfo

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