World Cup trophy a big hit

Just five runs are required off two balls, Mount Maunganui's Kale Wellington calmly steps up to hit a single then a four to win the ICC World Cup – on Tauranga's Waterfront.

The six-year-old comfortably occupied the crease against former Blackcap Chris Harris as part of this morning's ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 trophy tour in the city.

Kale Wellington, 6, with former Blackcap Chris Harris at the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 trophy tour. Photos: Bruce Barnard.

From 7.30am the roadshow featured an interactive exhibition on the history of the tournament, cricket skills challenges, giveaways and the chance to snap a pic with the trophy.

And it is all for next year's Australia and New Zealand event - the first time NZ will host flagship tournament since 1992.

For Kale, donning his Mount Maunganui Lions cricket gear, the day couldn't come soon enough, and he was right at home with Harris as the pair shared bowling and batting duties.

'He was easy to bowl out,” says the youngster. 'I got him out once.”

The all-rounder dreams of one day becoming a Blackcap, matching the achievements of his idol and national captain Brendon McCullum.

And he may get the chance to watch the Kiwi captain should his favourite team make the final, with his father Tony taking him across to the Melbourne Cricket Ground for his seventh birthday.

'I think it will be the Blackcaps and Australia in the final,” he predicts.

His mother Monique Wellington says Kale has had a bat and a ball in his hands since he was four.

'We have a full sized cricket net in our backyard,” she says, 'and he plays in it before and after school.

'I don't think he will realise the enormity of what he is part of [today], but once he gets older he will. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

Chris, part of the touring roadshow, says the reception from the Tauranga public has been fantastic, with one highlight sticking out in particular.

'We took the trophy to the top of Mauao for the sunrise,” he says. 'I'm not a morning person but it's worth the sacrifice being up there.”

Chris is also impressed with the budding young cricketing talent who came down to show their wares, including Kale.

'He got me out once and then smashed me all over the place,” adds Chris.

'When I see that name on the opposing team sheet the next time I'm back in town I will be a bit more wary.”

Also facing a couple of overs during the roadshow was Tauranga City Mayor Stuart Crosby.

The ICC Cricket World Cup will be at the Bay Oval at 1pm as part of the Western Bay of Plenty Mini Cricket World Cup day.

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