WELLINGTON – New Zealand coach John Wright has praised his team’s aggressive approach ahead of Tuesday’s World Cup semi-final against Sri Lanka in Colombo. Wright brushed aside criticism of New Zealand’s conduct in its shock quarter-final win over South Africa on Friday, when several Black Caps clashed with Proteas batsman Faf du Plessis at the end of the 28th over. “I liked the aggression of the team,” Wright told New Zealand media on Sunday.
“They were very aggressive, particularly in the field. I think that’s important. “The odd thing happened but these things happen in international sport. I really like players who play with aggression and passion.” Wright, who has turned around one of the worst form slumps in New Zealand’s history since his appointment last December, was more concerned by his side’s batting performance. With the Black Caps forced to defend a below-par 221 against South Africa, Wright said an improvement against Sri Lanka was crucial.
