South Africa eager to go for the Cup

Don't write off the Kiwis:

Elmo RODRIGOPULLE

South Africa and New Zealand who have yet to engrave their names in the World Cup will strain every nerve and sinew to win the 2011 World Cup and make their long standing dreams a reality.

In the third quarter-final to be played at the Shere Bangle National Stadium in Bangladesh today, South Africa front up to New Zealand and if the form they have displayed in coming to the quarters is an indication, then South Africa should brush aside the New Zealanders and take their rightful place in the semis.

In this game too, the two captains Graeme Smith and Daniel Vettori would be praying for the toss to spin in their favour, bat first and put the team batting second under pressure.

Bit tricky

The wicket at this venue has so far played true and been friendly to both batsmen and bowlers. Bu it is sure to favor spin once their game progresses and could be a bit tricky as it gets slower.

But they should not treat the Kiwis as easy beats. South Africa have had the tag - chokers - attached to them for a long time now, and it is time they silenced their critics and moved on.

Led by left handed attacking batsman Graeme Smith, the Proteas have one if not the best balanced sides in this tournament. Smith has been spot on with his captaincy. He is a great reader of situations and able to adjust.

Long stay

Opening the batting with Hashim Amla, he has not had a long stay and the wicket and big score to boast of. But this may be the game he has been waiting for to tot up a big score.

Amla has been the most consistent and will be looking to add more runs to his run bank. He has adjusted admirably from Test cricket to the cowboy game, which has helped his side immensely.

In Abrahan de Villies, Jaques Kallis and Jean Paul Duminy they have three of the most feared batsmen in all forms of the game. They can blunt any attack and take the game away from the opponents.

Their bowling is the most potent force. In Dale Steyn they have a bowler who could instill fear into the best of batsmen with his menacing pace and ability to move the ball both ways. In Mornie Morkel he has a good support bowler.

Morkel too in addition to movement he is able to get the ball to climb off a good length. He can use the long handle with telling effect.

Once the shine is off they have three world class spinners in Johaan Botha (off spin), Robin Petersen (left arm) and Imran Tahir (leg spin). They are three bowlers who can lure the batsmen into a run drought with their accuracy. They have some quick movers and sure catchers.

Impetuosity

As for the Kiwis, a lot will depend on Ross Taylor and Brendon McCallum. Once they get their eyes in can be difficult to contain.

It has been their impetuosity that has gone to cause their downfall when well set. They must bat with more responsibility.

Skipper Daniel Vettori's return should add strength and give them the all important confidence.

Vettori's all round ability was sadly missed. His return will strengthen them in all departments.

Jessie Ryder, Martin Guptil and Jacob Oram must all chip in with runs. They have it in them to come good. If they believe in their ability there is no reason why they should not be among he runs.

Better equipped

On paper the South Africans are the better equipped all round side.

But all that would count for nothing if they allow complacency to creep into their game. Complacency has gone to cause the downfall of many a team.

The Proteas must guard against this. Don't write off the Kiwis who go into this game as underdogs.