New Zealand media bemoaned the Black Caps' World Cup 'jinx' Tuesday after yet another semi-final exit, but praised the unheralded team for exceeding expectations in reaching the final four.

"It was deja vu all over again," national news agency NZPA said after Sri Lanka sent New Zealand packing at the semi-final stage for the sixth time in 10 World Cups. The team has never reached a tournament decider.