Kiwis still hopeful for World Cup

Despite defeat Stephen Fleming is optimistic

Captain Stephen Fleming believes New Zealand can still be competitive in next year's World Cup despite their record loss to Australia in the Champions Trophy in Sri Lanka.

The New Zealanders suffered a humiliating 164-run defeat on Sunday, their worst in 85 one-day games against Australia.

When we come to the World Cup we will have a bigger pool of players to chose from

Stephen Fleming

But Fleming does not think the loss will have too much significance when it comes to his side's chances in next February's tournament in South Africa.

"We were outclassed in a one-day match, but things can swing quite dramatically and things can go away from you in the field , " he told reporters.

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"We created chances but didn't turn them over but it doesn't mean we are a bad side. It was just a bad performance."

Fleming highlighted the absence of injured all-rounder Chris Cairns, and Craig McMillan, who opted out of the Champions Trophy for personal reasons, as factors behind his side's poor showing.

"In terms of where we are going and the World Cup we have got work to do but this result doesn't set us back that far," said Fleming.

Fleming argued that the Black Cap team might look very different in six months.

"It still means it's an opportunity for guys to experience an international against Australia and that can be an experience in itself," said Fleming.

"They will learn lessons from this, as will the team."

Fleming said that Australia were now a fancied team for the Champions Trophy, but was reluctant to install them as favourite.