The ICC World Cup warm-up games have begun, preparing the audience for an entertaining competition. In their opening exhibition match, New Zealand easily defeated Pakistan, while South Africa’s contest with Afghanistan was called off due to rain. The Proteas will now be eager to play a whole game against New Zealand on October 2 in Thiruvananthapuram. They would want to take advantage of the opportunity to adjust to the environment as much as possible since this is their last chance to do so.
There is no better way for New Zealand to begin their World Cup preparations. They defeated Pakistan with approximately seven overs remaining by crushing a 346-run goal. Rachin Ravindra, who was moved up the order, scored 97 runs off 72 balls while playing some exquisite strokes. Additionally hitting half-centuries to prepare for the World Cup in style are Daryl Mitchell and Mark Chapman.
South Africa has never won the ODI World Cup, but they are desperate to change that narrative this time. Their squad, led by Temba Bavuma, is enjoying a winning streak after recently defeating Australia at home. They would have the most difficulty adapting to these slower wickets, though.
The development of Kane Williamson, who marked his return from a six-month injury layoff with a 49-ball fifty, would, however, enormously please the Kiwis. Williamson maintained his normal level of composure and solidity, and he appeared poised to make his imprint on the tournament.
Williamson’s form makes this New Zealand team appear stronger. Their one weakness so far is their flat-surface bowling, but players like Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson will improve as they play more games in similar circumstances. Trent Boult didn’t participate in the most recent game, but he will probably bowl a few overs against South Africa.
Their weak point with the ball is James Neesham, but Mitchell Santner has the potential to make all the difference. In the previous game, the left-arm spinner had statistics of 2-39 from 8 overs. He ought to do better against Protea batsmen, who frequently have trouble facing strong spin bowling.
New Zealand
Tom Latham (c & wk), Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Glenn Phillips, Trent Boult/Matt Henry, Kane Williamson, Lockie Ferguson
Bavuma comes out as the best performer for South Africa in terms of form. The tenacious opener has amassed an astounding 637 runs in 10 ODIs this year, maintaining a remarkable average of over 80, including three hundreds and two fifties.
After the World Cup, Quinton de Kock plans to retire from the ODI format, so fans can expect a stunning showcase of his batting prowess. His wealth of IPL experience on comparable surfaces is probably going to work in his favor, paving the way for a successful campaign.
Keep an eye on Heinrich Klaasen, who has been on fire lately. In a recent brilliant effort against Australia, the flamboyant middle-order batsman scored 174 runs off just 83 balls. He is a crucial player to keep an eye on because he frequently targets New Zealand’s spin attack due to his ability to dominate spin bowlers.
Kagiso Rabada will be in command of the pace department, accompanied by strong players like Lungi Ngidi and rising sensation Marco Jansen. On the seasoned shoulders of Keshav Maharaj, the duty of spin responsibilities will rest. The pitches here should be better for him than the ones he finds at home.
South Africa
Temba Bavuma(c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Rassie van der Dussen, David Miller, Keshav Maharaj, Marco Jansen, Lungi Ngidi, Heinrich Klaasen, Kagiso Rabada, Aiden Markram, Tabraiz Shamsi
NZ vs RSA : Match Details | ||
Match | New Zealand vs South Africa, 7th ODI | ICC Cricket World Cup Warm-up Matches 2023 | |
Date | 02/09/2023 (Monday) | |
Time | 13:30 (GMT+5) / 14:00 (GMT+5.5) / 14:30 (GMT+6) | |
Format | ODI | |
Venue | Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram | |
Recent performance | New Zealand – W L W W L | South Africa – L NR W L |
Greenfield International Stadium
The afternoon is predicted to bring heavy showers. Therefore, the toss-winning team might be persuaded to field first.
The daytime sky in Thiruvananthapuram will be primarily cloudy. There will be a few showers and a thunderstorm in the morning, then a lot of rain in the afternoon.
The Greenfield International Stadium pitch offers good batting conditions and gives spinners a lot of help.
New Zealand has 1 win in the last five face-offs and the South Africa has three.
Winning the toss
Player of the Match
Most runs
Most wickets
Most sixes
Team Scores Batting First
According to cricket analysts, New Zealand has a 59.5% chance to win.
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