Pacer Ian Butler is the man-in-charge of the transport of the team, so he has to ensure that the bus is on time and the players have no problems in reaching the ground. There are a couple of players designated to help the physio and trainer carry their equipment. All-rounder Martin Guptill has to take care of the national flag, making sure it’s displayed at the stadium and then diligently folded and kept back.

There are a few more interesting assignments up for grabs before the start of every tour. For the present tour, new-ball bowler Iain O’Brien has to take care of the players’ partners and ensure that they travel to the stadium comfortably. The colourful Jesse Ryder has the challenging job of taking care that the music in the dressing room caters to all tastes. But the most coveted job is that of all-rounder Jacob Oram. He is given the stack of match-day passes and has to deal with requests for them from team mates.

The manager of the Kiwi team, Dave Kerry, says this unconventional system of sharing responsibilities is a big help. “It is a great system. The players enjoy doing these small things. I decide who gets which job before a tour,” he says.

So are there any grim faces when the allocation takes place? He breaks into a smile saying: “No, nothing like that. Besides, there is no democracy. I tell them and they have to do it happily.”