New teams need to know it?s not easy

I believe that if the any nation is to aspire for top level cricket, it will have to understand how tough international cricket is, writes Woolmer.

Dread the English weather. It is unpredictable to the say the least as one witnessed during the days preceding the ICC Champions Trophy. No sooner the players put on their cricketing attire than the rain played spoilsport.

New Zealand destroyed the United States as expected. The US, although having a vibrant cricketing community with over 500 clubs and some 20,000 players, mostly play social cricket. And, with three players in their side over 40 years, their annihilation was a foregone conclusion.

England also comfortably disposed of Zimbabwe although one could see plenty of spirit in the Zimbabweans. Phil Simmons, who has taken over as Zimbabwe's coach, will have a tough job on hand as they look to rebuild.

However, I believe that if the US or any other associate nation is to aspire for top level cricket, it will have to understand just how tough international cricket is. The US has former first class players from Barbados, West Indies and also from Pakistan but, although knowledgeable and good cricketers, they are not fit enough for this level!