Auckland: Martin Guptill's double ton was the fillip New Zealand needed heading into their World Cup semi-final against South Africa, according to captain Brendon McCullum. At stake is an historic first appearance in the World Cup final with neither side having progressed past the semis in the past.


Brendon McCullum. Pic/AFP 

New Zealand were forced to hastily rearrange their squad Monday after Adam Milne was ruled out with a left heel injury and Matt Henry was rushed up to Auckland. But McCullum said they remained confident without their express bowler and the presence of Guptill after his colossal 237 not out against West Indies was an inspiration to the rest of the team.