Record-breaking spinner Daniel Vettori is feeling fit and refreshed enough to play a full role in New Zealand's World Cup campaign.
Vettori, who turns 36 on Tuesday, is happy with his form in a sustained return to international cricket this summer and is confident injury won't be a factor when the Black Caps co-host the four-yearly tournament with Australia from mid-February.
The back and achilles tendon problems that have plagued the former captain for two years are seemingly behind him.
"The main concern for myself and everyone was getting through games of cricket. I've bowled a lot of overs and I'm feeling good - there hasn't been any niggles," he said.
"There's still a fair amount of cricket to go, including the World Cup, and I'm pretty confident I can get through all of those games."
Vettori underlined his value to the team with a miserly spell of 0-22 from eight overs during Sunday's 120-run win over Sri Lanka in the sixth one-day international at Dunedin.
He used flight and variation to contain classy Sri Lankan pair Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara at a time when they needed to increase the run rate through the middle stages.
Before the game, Vettori was acknowledged for playing his 280th ODI for New Zealand, surpassing the record held by fellow former captain Stephen Fleming. Vettori also edged past Fleming late last year to be the record-holder for Test caps (113).
"The size of the grounds and the nature of the wickets - to be a spin bowler in New Zealand and hold the record for Test matches and one-dayers is very satisfying," he said.
He hasn't officially retired from Tests but won't be pushed on his future, believing it more important that his and the team's focus stays on the World Cup.
Teammate Ross Taylor says Vettori's presence is a source of confidence, particularly with his ability to curtail opposition strokemakers at key times.
"His control has always been great. Mahela and Sanga are great players of spin and Dan was able to put pressure on them and dot them up on a pretty good wicket."
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