World Cup Cocktail

M.S. Dhoni can crack a joke with a straight face even before one realises it, as one photo journalist learnt on Friday.

A senior photographer said, "Mahi, you are not the same person you used to be in 2004-05. You used to give poses for such amazing compositions."

Dhoni said, "Ahh, don't lie. You didn't know me in 2004."

The photographer jogged his memory and said, "I was there in Bangladesh during your debut series." Dhoni, however, confused him saying: "Who told you that I made my debut against Bangladesh? "You don't even know," said Dhoni with a wry smile (he made his debut against Bangladesh in December 2004).

"Then was it in Zimbabwe that you made your debut," said the photographer.

 Dhoni smiled back and said, "See, that's why journalists can't be trusted."

Crowe inducted into Hall of Fame

New Zealand great Martin Crowe was inducted into Cricket's Hall of Fame on Saturday, the terminally ill former batsman describing it as a "great honour" and prompting a standing ovation from 40,000 fans at Eden Park.

Known as one of the game's most stylish batsmen, the 52-year-old became the third New Zealander behind Richard Hadlee and Debbie Hockley, and 79th in the world, to receive the honour.

"I am pleased to get this prestigious award, especially joining my friend Richard Hadlee," said Crowe, after being awarded his commemorative cap from International Cricket Council (ICC) director and chairman of Cricket Australia, Wally Edwards.

Crowe dedicated the award to his father Dave and mother Audrey.

Crowe made his international debut against Australia in Wellington in February 1982 at the age of 19. He retired 13 years later.

McCullum bruised but okay

Brendon McCullum is expected to be fit to lead New Zealand against Afghanistan next weekend, after a scare during his hectic half century at Eden Park tonight.

The blockbusting New Zealand skipper took a fierce blow on his left forearm from Australian quick Mitchell Starc in the third over of their cliffhanging chase for 152.

On 22 at the time, it took McCullum a few minutes to recover and his arm quickly swelled. He was bandaged before he continued and then remained with the team rather than going for scans.

"I think he's OK," Kane Williamson said. "Obviously it was a bit of a concern, when a ball that fast hits you on the arm. But he's a tough competitor and a strong leader and I'm sure he'll be fine."

'Do not take fruits out of Eden Park'

The crackdown on the Queensland fruit fly moved to Auckland's Eden Park yesterday.

Dozens of workers were out to make sure the unwelcome visitor wasn't part of the Cricket World Cup clash between New Zealand and Australia and wouldn't take flight from the venue.

A total of eight Queensland fruit flies have been found in the suburb of Grey Lynn in New Zealand.

A large message was even displayed on the giant screen for the game to remind cricket fans not to take fruit and vegetables outside the controlled area, while security kept a tight watch.   --Compiled