Match Details
The cricketing giants, New Zealand and South Africa, are set to clash on Wednesday, November 1, at the MCA International Stadium in Pune.
Match Preview
This match promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of the tournament’s top-performing teams, potentially offering a glimpse into the knockout stages. Currently, both teams hold the second and third spots in the standings, and if they maintain these positions, they will face each other again in the semi-finals.
With plenty of cricket still to be played before the semi-finals, this match is crucial for both teams as they aim to secure their spots in the knockout stages. The last time these two teams met in an ODI was during the 2019 World Cup in England and Wales, where New Zealand emerged victorious, thanks to a brilliant century by captain Kane Williamson.
Williamson is expected to return from a thumb injury for this match, but Lockie Ferguson is likely to be sidelined due to an Achilles issue. Mark Chapman’s participation is also uncertain due to a calf injury. On the other hand, South Africa has no new injury concerns, although Kagiso Rabada’s participation will be decided closer to the match due to a back problem.
Team Lineups
New Zealand Squad:
Kane Williamson (c), Trent Boult, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitch Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Will Young.
South Africa Squad:
Temba Bavuma (c), Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Rassie van der Dussen, Lizaad Williams.
Players to Watch
New Zealand – Mitch Santner
The Kiwi spinner, Mitch Santner, has been one of the standout performers at the World Cup, having taken 14 wickets so far. Despite being expensive in the match against Australia, Santner’s ability to break partnerships makes him a key player for New Zealand. South Africa will need to be cautious against his deceptive bowling.
South Africa – Quinton de Kock
South African opener Quinton de Kock has been in exceptional form, scoring three centuries and amassing a tournament-high 431 runs. His best performance came against Bangladesh, where he scored a massive 174 runs. New Zealand will be keen to dismiss him early in the innings, as his performance often dictates the team’s overall performance.