The tour by Bangladesh is doing the Black Caps more harm than good.
This column has long considered Bangladesh as the impostor of world cricket and unfortunately for it its results continue to stutter.
Everyone goes on about Bangladesh's population base and how they all love their cricket. It just needs time, say its supporters.
But the stark reality is that in a decade of top-class cricket, Bangladesh simply has not improved and it shouldn't be competing at this level.
In my opinion, the ICC is far better off pumping money into the likes of Ireland, the Netherlands and Canada. The payback is likely to be far greater in terms of producing a competitive team.
Given the lop-sided nature of the present series, it is impossible to get a line on the quality of Peter Ingram and Andy McKay.
Yes, they have begun well and look the part against this opponent.
But it is folly to suggest they can both wreak havoc against the Aussies in a few weeks time.
And this is the problem facing the New Zealand management. All the players seem to be running into some kind of form.
But it's a bit like a Derby winner cleaning up a bunch of maidens at a country track.
The form means nothing.
The game of cricket in New Zealand is being dealt a dud hand by having the Bangladeshis here at the height of summer.
At a time when cricket should be parading its wares to a sun-tanned throng of observers, interest is negated in our game as the matches stretch new boundaries of tedium.
Another few rounds of domestic Twenty20 would have held more significance to the crowds.
The series with Australia should attract the attention of all supporters and for sure the thirst of anticipation rages at the prospect.
But let's hope our guys are ready to front up as Ponting's men hit our shores.
The performance by Bangladesh has done neither our fans nor our players any favours as preparations heat up for the main feast.