However, between 2007 and 2009 he established himself in the Test side, and to a lesser extent, in the ODI side, particularly in the absence of Shane Bond and he is renowned as an 'into-the-wind' bowler who would often bowl at an end that did not offer favourable bowling conditions—especially at Wellington, a ground renowned for strong winds. He enjoyed much success as a fast bowler for the Black Caps, with great performances against England in the UK, and against the West Indies cricket team at home, where he took his best Test figures of 6/75, in a spell of bowling regarded as one of the best in New Zealand. These performance have given him the reputation as a wicket-taking bowler, and being the "go-to man" for Daniel Vettori, the captain. He continued his consistent spells against the Australia cricket team, home and away, and for Wellington.