Former Blackcaps captain Brendon McCullum was one of many proud onlookers at the Basin Reserve on Monday, as New Zealand clinched a dominant win over the West Indies to move just inches shy of the top of the ICC test rankings.
The 2-0 series victory moves the Blackcaps to second on the official rankings on 116.461, with No.1 Australia on 116.375.
The master blaster turned Spark Sports commentator says it's a culmination of years of hard work and progression.
"When you look back at where the NZ cricket side were a number of years ago, to the heights they've scaled now.. it's just an amazing achievement," McCullum tells Newshub.
McCullum singled out skipper Kane Williamson for praise for his contribution to the team's stellar development.
"What he has done with this side and the way he's driven it forward and the level of consistency that he's been able to bring out of his players is nothing short of outstanding," he adds.
"There will be a moment tonight in that dressing room and for those who have been along the journey where they stop and they appreciate just how much hard work and sacrifice has gone into achieving what they've been able to achieve today."
The result also lifts the Blackcaps to third in the inaugural ICC World Test Championship and within reach of a berth in the final at Lord's in June next year.
And while the iconic ground - the scene of their heartbreaking loss in the World Cup Final last year - hasn't been a happy hunting ground for the Blackcaps recently, McCullum is confident this crop of players is a more dangerous proposition.
"New Zealand have always been in the game in those tests and this New Zealand is a more polished side than what's been there before," he adds.
"If they were to earn the opportunity to play in that test final then they would be a good chance."
Join us from 7pm for live updates of the opening T20 between the Blackcaps and Pakistan
