New Zealand began their ICC World Cup campaign in style, picking up a huge win over Sri Lanka in the opening match of the tournament.

The co-hosts made 331-6 from their allotted 50 overs in Christchurch and then effectively dismantled the Sri Lankan batting to bowl them out for 233 in 46.1 overs, to complete a whopping 108-run success.

After all the anticipation and build-up, the start of the first match was held up by a brief shower that arrived over the Hagley Oval after the anthems had been played.

The temporary hold-up didn't delay the Kiwis for long as Brendon McCullum and Martin Guptill flew out of the blocks with a century stand.

After winning the toss and inserting the hosts Sri Lanka's decision backfired spectacularly as McCullum raced to the first half century of the tournament.

The New Zealand skipper eventually holed out for 65, after a stand of 111 and Guptill followed shortly afterwards, for 49.

Kane Williamson maintained the pressure, scoring 57 from 65 deliveries, laying the foundations for a brutal assault from Corey Anderson to power the total beyond 300.

Anderson made an unbeaten 75 from only 46 deliveries, clubbing eight fours and two huge sixes.

Leg-spinner Jeevan Mendi, who only inexplicably only bowled two overs, returned figures of 2-5.

Lasith Malinga, returning to competitive action for the first time since ankle surgery in September, was understandably rusty and conceded 84 from his ten overs.

The response looked promising early on, as Lahiru Thirimanne and Tillakaratne Dilshan put on 67 befoe being parted at the end ofthe 13th over.

Thirimanne went on to top score with 65 and his captain, Angelo Matthews hit 46 but Sri Lanka lost crucial wickets at regular intervals causing the run-rate to escalate dramatically.

Anderson completed a fine all-round day by claiming the man of the match award after collecting 2-18 with the ball.

The remainder of the wickets were shared equally, with Tim Southee, Adam Milne, Dan Vettori and Trent Boult each bagging two victims.

Tipped by many people to have their best-ever chance of winning the World Cup, New Zealand did little wrong, in a thoroughly convincing performance and already look to be one of the sides that others will want to avoid once the knock-out stages begin.

Trent Bridge hosts the fourth Royal London One-Day International between England and New Zealand on Wednesday 17 June. Don't miss the chance to take in what promises to be an absorbing contest and secure your seat now.