The issue of reducing the number of competing teams in the 2019 World Cup to 10 from the current 14, has divided the cricketing world.

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The pros and cons of such a step has been debated by fans and legends, and former New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming is the latest one to air his views.

It was interesting what Fleming had to say, while taking part in a New Zealand Tourism event held at the set of Peter Jackson’s Hobbit trilogy.

When asked which camp he belonged to, Fleming said: “I am in a very interesting camp actually. We focus a lot on the World Cup, but the four years in between are more important.

“To have the associate teams to turn up against the big boys every four years at a World Cup and perform is unrealistic. So, what can be done in that four-year period?

“For me, more than the format of the World Cup, it is more important how we can gain more exposure for the associate teams during these four years. I’d like to see how can India free up some time and play against the associates, or how New Zealand can develop cricket in places like Papua New Guinea and Fiji?”

Shami, the Hadlee fan

After India’s match with Ireland got over, New Zealand’s legendary swing bowler, Sir Richard Hadlee, gave away the man-of-the-match award to Shikhar Dhawan.

As Hadlee was leaving the field, Indian fast bowler Mohammad Shami was seen scampering out of the Indian dressing room with team director Ravi Shastri towards the man called ‘Sultan of Swing’.

Shami cannot speak in English, but spent several minutes with Hadlee, with Shastri acting as the translator. He then took Hadlee’s autograph, and also requested a passing photographer from Indian media to click his picture with the legend.

Kohli spreading terror

There’s no doubt that the recent episode of Virat Kohli abusing a journalist has had an effect on his image.

On Monday, as the team was doing the nets at Seddon Park, there was a group of fans watching them practice.

And one was overheard saying: “Just stay away from Kohli. He might think you are a journalist!”