Like many other teams, New Zealand and South Africa last played each other in the ODI World Cup in India. South Africa dismantled New Zealand ruthlessly in Pune in that game. But this time, something about the Kiwis’ performance, especially in the first game against the host Pakistan, tells that they are hardly ready to endure the same drubbing again. The conditions in Lahore seemed tailor-made for New Zealand the other day. And though they will face South Africa in a day game, this should do no damage to the way they have responded to the conditions.
South Africa are still waiting for their regular players to join the side after ending the SA20. The makeshift team, largely sourced from their domestic circuit, will need to set the stage for the seniors who might be available from the Proteas’ next game.
Team Overview:
Rachin Ravindra sustained a laceration near his eye while fielding in the first game versus Pakistan. Although a more serious impact was avoided, he will not be available to feature in this game. This might see Devon Conway returning to the team, to open with Will Young. Tom Latham’s prolonged quiet outings with the bat are making things worse for him as well as the New Zealand team. Against Pakistan the other day, he was dismissed for a duck, which was sandwiched between Daryl Mitchell’s 81-run knock and Glenn Phillips’ century. Mitchell Santner has plenty of bowling options to choose from and he made sure to make the most of them in the first game by using seven of his bowlers. More than anything else, New Zealand will be assisted by their rich spin attack in this day game in Lahore.
South Africa played in the ODI format just recently, against Pakistan. But many of the players who did so will not feature in this game. Barring the skipper Temba Bavuma, Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi, Wiaan Mulder, and Kyle Verreynne, the rest of the side will be relatively inexperienced. Bavuma will have to make use of his resources as effectively as he can. Few of the players who are a part of South Africa’s Tri-series squad will not stay in the country for the upcoming Champions Trophy, so Bavuma will have lesser forward-thinking to do.
Head-to-Head Record:
In 72 ODI matches that both teams have played against each other, South Africa have largely dominated New Zealand by winning 42 games. New Zealand managed to be the better side in 25 matches. 5 one-dayers between the sides ended without any result.
Weather and Pitch Report:
This is the only day game in the Tri-series. In fact, none of the games in the upcoming Champions Trophy will begin at the same time as this game. The weather will be pleasant, without any threats from rain. With this game set to start in the morning, the dew factor should not be an issue to be considered. A high-scoring game can be expected once again in Lahore.
Prediction:
South Africa have stronger historical record against the Kiwis, New Zealand have an incredible team. This calls for a tense game between both sides, however, the Kiwis’ almost-regular lineup might get them the edge they need.
Where to Watch:
Pakistan: Ten Sports, A Sports, Myco App, Tamasha, Tapmad
South Africa: Super Sport
UK: ARY Digital
India: Sony Sports, Fancode App
Sri Lanka: Dialog
