It's hard to argue with a confident man. Just ask Henry Collier.
Wanganui cricket's standout teenager departs Palmerston North at lunchtime today on the biggest journey of his burgeoning career as he links up with his New Zealand under-19 squad mates to fly to Dubai for the start of theICC U19 World Cup in a week's time.
After his Hawke Cup appearances for Active Physio Wanganui and matches for the Central Districts U19 team over January, the top order batsman and part-time spin bowler firmly believes he and his fellow Young Guns are capable of defying the odds in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Collier has been working hard in net sessions, remembering the sweltering heat he had to endure in Darwin in June-July when the Kiwis faced the Australian and Indian U19 teams, where despite a century in a Tri-Series warm-up game he did not have profitable returns in the internationals.
However, having just got back from his final home training yesterday afternoon, Collier said he was feeling good and if given the opportunity had set himself to bat for long periods as required.
He has known most of his squad as either opponents or teammates for a number of years and is confident the personnel are there to do the job.
"My chances of starting, I'm not sure at the moment. I've been told top three [batting] in the order and as for bowling, it could be anyone of us batsmen on the day," Collier said.
"Realistic expectations? Making probably at least the quarter-finals or the semifinals. I think we've got a really good chance in surprising a few teams and making the final.
"I've got a lot of faith in our side and don't think anyone can stop us at the moment."
The Young Guns have drawn Sri Lanka, England and hosts UAE in their pool.
After two warm-up games, their tournament starts February 14 with the final on March 1.
History shows Australia and India remain the heavy favourites, constantly producing successful teams which have dominated the tournament.
India won in 2000, 2008 and 2012, while Australia were the champions in the one-off tournament in 1988, followed by 2002 and 2010 after it became a regular fixture.
Pakistan are the only nation to win back-to-back titles in 2004 and 2006, while England are the only other team to have won, in 1998. Australia are the most successful team in the competition, with a winning percentage of 79.66.
