New Zealand fast bowler Shane Bond says he is looking to generate 150km/h thunderbolts to unsettle opposition batsmen in the Champions Trophy cricket tournament but plans to use them sparingly.
Speaking at a press conference in the Indian capital of New Delhi today, Bond said: "I am hoping to get
the 150 pace. I have just become more smarter.
"I will keep things as simple as possible and try to be consistent.
"I will try that (150km/h deliveries) when batsmen come after me... " he added.
The 31-year-old, making a comeback after a six-week injury layoff, said it had been a frustrating wait and he was eager to face the challenge of bowling on slow Indian wickets.
"It will be a challenge to bowl on Indian wickets. It is not easy but I am not worried because I have come with my homework done and am in proper mindframe."
Bond, who made his international debut in 2001, said he was also trying some variations in his bowling.
"I am keeping my hip and shoulder movements right while bowling quick. In ODI cricket you have to play with more quality and more strength," said Bond, who has played 45 one-dayers and picked 87 wickets with a best haul of 6-19.
Coach John Bracewell said his bowling spearhead would be a key factor in New Zealand's Champions Trophy campaign.
"Since all the matches are day and night there will be some movement in the air. And since Bond has the ability to swing the ball both ways, he will make the difference," Bracewell said.
New Zealand, who won the tournament in 2000 in Kenya, is not considered among the favourites and Bracewell feels that this will add to their advantage.
"Not being the favourites is always an advantage because there is no pressure on you. We have a pretty balanced and fresh side, which is ready to take on any opponent," he said.
"We have some good slow bowlers such as Daniel Vettori, Jeetan Patel and Scott Styris, who will adapt to the conditions in the subcontinent. And we have also a pretty long batting order."
New Zealand begin their campaign with a Group B pool match against South Africa in Mumbai on October 16. The group also features Pakistan and one of two qualifiers.
- NZPA
