Describing New Zealand's ODI series win over India as a triumph of the "little guys of world cricket", the Kiwi media today said the victory proves the relevance of underdogs at a time when superpowers are trying to seize control of the game.
New Zealand won the fourth ODI to take an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series after the third match ended in a tie.
The result is a huge morale-booster for the now world number seven Black Caps, who have ensured India's fall from the top spot with their gutsy show.
It came at a time when India, Australia and England were pushing for a revamp of the ICC's administrative structure which would cede executive decision-making to the three countries.
"(It's) a victory it's hoped will resonate as much with the Indian board and a global game in crisis, as it will with local fans," said 'The New Zealand Herald'.
Echoing the sentiment was 'Fairfax New Zealand' calling it a triumph "for the little guys of world cricket".
"As India sought to strengthen their already dominant position as cricket's leviathan, minnows New Zealand sent a timely reminder that the underdogs shouldn't be overlooked... (they) struck an on-field blow for those countries expected to be handicapped by the proposal's plans," it said.
