Batsman Ross Taylor’s focus is firmly fixed on the World Cup later this year as New Zealand continue a challenging ODI series against Sri Lanka.

Taylor scored solid half-centuries in the first two matches of the three-ODI series – and is understandably eager to perform well in the final fixture in Nelson on Tuesday.

‘You’ve got to go about it in a certain way. I’m sure at the World Cup the scores will be very high – certainly at a few of the grounds. We’ve got to find ways of getting to the big scores, and also of restricting the opposition as well,’ said Taylor.

‘It’s a World Cup year, and I’ve put a big focus on the tournament and on one-day cricket. There are still a few things I want to work on, but I can hopefully continue the form.’

The Black Caps won the second ODI despite a big century from opposition all-rounder Thisara Perera, who was dropped a few times en route to a swashbuckling 140.

‘Some of our best fielders were dropping catches. It was a bit windy, but at the end of the day, there are no excuses for that,’ added Taylor.

‘We have to work hard at training to rectify that. I’m sure once those first couple go in in the next match, all the boys’ hearts will be a bit calmer than they were last time.’

Photo: Getty