It is no secret which New Zealand cricketer is rated top by the Sri Lankans.

When the touring Sri Lanka team landed in Auckland today, any conversation between the players and New Zealand welcomers started with the query: "Will Chris Cairns be playing?"

An experienced player like Mutiah Muralitharan, the magical spin-bowler, wanted to immediately check the local strength.

"Chris Cairns out! What about Geoff Allott, and Dion Nash, and Simon Doull?" said Muralitharan, his eyes rolling in amazement when told all were injured and not available.

"And Shayne O'Connor? came the question from the coach Dav Whatmore.

The coach agreed with the return of Daniel Vettori, but was surprised Paul Wiseman was not also in the squad.

"We will need to get a check on the local players and their form," said Whatmore.

"As soon as possible. Will you people (addressing the half-dozen interviewers) give us some help?"

© CricInfo