South Africa vs New Zealand

Posted on | April 14, 2007 | No Comments

New Zealand and South Africa square off against each other in a match which is as important for one as it is for the other, at the National stadium in Grenada.

South Africa have won 3 out of their 4 super eight games, not counting the group loss to Australia. The loss to Bangladesh did put the Proteas in a bit of a tight spot, but the win over West Indies ensured that things were back on the right track. Their next game, is against England. England only have a mathematical chance of making it to the semifinals, but they must hope that the other results go their way. South Africa possibly missed a trick or two when they allowed the West Indies tail to wag a little more than it should have been allowed to. The pitch at Grenada does tend to get a little slower, and Robin Peterson is one option they will have to consider. Peterson may play instead of Kemp, if South Africa want his bowling more than Bosman’s batting abilities. Langdevelt might make a return to the squad in place of Nel, given the nature of the Grenadan wickets. Andrew Hall’s subtle change of pace could come in handy.

New Zealand had six wins on the trot in the Carribean before they were beaten by Sri Lanka. South Africa are a little more orthodox than the Lankans- especially in the bowling department. A loss to South Africa and the following game against Australia could see England sneaking ahead of the Kiwis. If New Zealand win today, they will seal their spot in the last four, leaving South Africa and England to battle for the final spot. Jeetan Patel may be recalled in place of Gillespie. The conditions at Grenada are taxing, and New Zealand may find it difficult to come back and play in 48 hours. Stephen Fleming holds the key with the bat, as he so often does for his side against the South Africans. The middle order- especially Styris and McCullum have helped their side recover more than once in this tournament. Bond and Vettori will play a key role- Bond for his pace, and Vettori for his tricky left arm spinners.

Tough one to predict. South Africa will remember that they lost to the Kiwis in the last edition of this tournament. On neutral venues, in recent times, Stephen Fleming’s side appear to hold an edge, but South Africa in my opinion, start slight favourites.

Related posts:

1. South Africa v New Zealand preview
2. New Zealand vs South Africa preview- 2011 World Cup
3. South Africa vs England preview
4. Spain vs South Africa preview
5. Brazil v South Africa preview

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