Brendon McCullum was filled with pride after the Black Caps fell at the final hurdle in the Cricket World Cup.
New Zealand were comprehensively outplayed by Australia in tonight's showpiece at the MCG, losing by seven wickets in a one-sided affair.
But McCullum had no regrets when considering the efforts of his side, praising Australia as deserved victors.
New Zealand were taught a lesson by Australia, but don't forget the six weeks before this - Southee's seven-for; Williamson's six; McCullum's pyrotechnics; Guptill, Martin freaking Guptill; Elliott's miracle. That was all real. This campaign was no mirage. Keep believing,
.
"It's a mission that resonates now, as New Zealand's neon-lit campaign slipped into the shadows today.
They will be back and they will be better.
This will be a team worth investing in for a long time to come," Cleaver says.
What do you think? Are you proud of our boys in Black, despite the loss? Have your say here.