Opportunity: Thanked supporters by saying "we know you guys are riding the wave with us" on Wednesday at the civic reception in Auckland, but if they win this match he won't have seen such unfettered cricket devotion in this country.
Threat: If Australia dismantle New Zealand in most facets the overwhelming tide of support will remain but there risks being a "candy floss" feeling that the team were less than meets the eye. Cynics will point to vulnerability as a team for the small occasion.
Approach to sledging: Prefers to do his team's "talking" through shrewd captaincy. Backs his bowlers by stacking the field with catchers, and the fielders look like a circus act diving and rolling to reinforce the game plan. Pressure is applied without the verbals.
Willingness to gamble? Sometimes gives the impression he'd bet on two raindrops racing down a wall. Loves to roll the dice with his fielding settings (cue four slips from Trent Boult to Moeen Ali a week ago). His willingness to dance down the wicket to pace bowlers against dentists' advice remains a marvel for spectators.
Michael Clarke
Stat: Hasn't scored an ODI ton against New Zealand in 29 matches. His unbeaten 71 in the win at Eden Park in 2005 gives him rights to claim familiarity with the venue.
Strength: Possesses extraordinary determination to defy scrutiny, especially returning from hamstring surgery. A key example followed his 2010 break-up with Lara Bingle. Clarke went home before resurfacing in Wellington to make his then highest test score of 168.
Weakness: Is his fitness sorted? Tomorrow provides the gauge. Clarke has already been at odds with selectors and management over a disputed return deadline (he thought it was March 4, Cricket Australia said it was February 21).
Opportunity: This tournament is a definitive chance on the limited-overs stage to prove he is a tactical leader as much as a batsman and fielder who leads by example. His Channel Nine commentaries indicated he has significant cricketing nous.
Threat: If Australia fail to live up to their justified top billing, how much will Clarke wear the blame? Is the dressing room and the selection panel adamant he should continue in the role? Or would they prefer incumbent test skipper Steven Smith with the likes of Clarke as the senior pro?
Willingness to gamble? Has generally had limited need. When you lead players of such skill and determination there is an assumption they'll win regardless. If Clarke does come under pressure, especially in his return from hiatus, it will provide a fascinating match angle.
Approach to sledging: Endorses the practice as a means to victorious ends. The most highlighted episode was his threat to fellow England sledging practitioner James Anderson to "get ready for a broken f****** arm" during the Brisbane Ashes test in 2013.
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