Kiwis struck by 'White Lightning' Donald impact

New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori hailed former South African spearhead Allan Donald on Thursday, claiming he has revived the faltering confidence of the Black Caps seam attack.

Donald, known as "White Lightning" during his career, was hired as bowling coach in January by a New Zealand team which arrived at the World Cup having lost 14 of their previous 16 one-day internationals.

But they stopped the rot with a quickfire 10-wicket demolition of Kenya in their World Cup opener with fast bowler Hamish Bennett taking four wickets for 16.

Vettori was quick to praise Donald's effect on Bennett and fellow seamer Tim Southee.

"He's brought a wealth of experience but the biggest thing he has brought is confidence," the captain said.

"When a team hasn't been winning, to have him come into the side and instil the sort of confidence that he has and the knowledge that he has in some of our bowlers has been great.

"Tim Southee and Hamish Bennett particularly have worked really hard with him and enjoyed his expertise."

"Hopefully for a long time we get the fruits of that because he (Donald) has been a great fit and he's well revered within world cricket so that brings a lot to the team."

New Zealand face Australia here on Friday in their next Group A game.