The Blackcaps are back in Sydney before Wednesday's Twenty20 World Cup semi-final against Pakistan.
Star Blackcaps batter Devon Conway hopes to showcase the form on display in his blistering 92 in his tournament-opening innings against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground, while avoiding a repeat of his embarrasing gaffe at the same stage of last year's T20 World Cup.
Back at that historic stadium for Monday's training, you can sense the Blackcaps desire to be part of the final yet again.
"You want to be in these situations," said Conway.
But after his fast start, he’s aware he hasn’t returned to those heights since, with just 32 runs through the Blackcaps' last three games.
"[Twenty20] fluctuates really quickly," noted Conway. "You've got to stay positive. I've been hitting the ball nicely in the nets."
Though the nets mean little if you can’t deliver on the field. Just ask South Africa, whose dramatic upset loss to the Netherlands paved the way for Pakistan.
"It was a little bit of a shock to see them lose," said Conway.
That result has served as a timely reminder for the Blackcaps.
"There’s powerful teams in this tournament and anyone can win on the night," said Conway.
Wednesday's semi-final will be the first time the two nations have faced each other in a knockout round since the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007.Pakistan won that time, and the Blackcaps hope that won’t be a part of history that’s repeated.
And Conway is well aware of the rollercoaster of a T20 semi-final. His frustration upon being dismissed against England in last year's semi-final led to him punching his bat, resulting in a broken hand that ruled him out of the final against Australia.
"Unfortunately I had a silly moment in last semi last year and broke my hand and don’t want to do that again," said Conway.
Playing it safe, but playing to win. With that, comes a warning from the opposition.
"There will be no one in this world who wants to face us in this competition now," said Pakistan batting coach Matthew Hayden.
Join us at 9pm Wednesday for live updates of the T20 World Cup semi-final between the Blackcaps and Pakistan
