Published: Feb 18, 2017, 11:32 AM (IST)
Edited: Feb 18, 2017, 11:32 AM (IST)
After demolishing New Zealand in the only Twenty20 International (T20I) of the tour, South Africa will now want to re-kindle their form in the One-Day International (ODI) format as well. Both teams are to clash in a five-match ODI series, which acts as a prelude to the much awaited ICC Champions Trophy 2017 in England. New Zealand, coming into the series, are high on confidence after winning the coveted Chappell-Hadlee Trophy few weeks ago, while South Africa romped past Sri Lanka 5-0. This series promises to be a crackerjack of a contest with well balanced and formidable group of players available at both sides’ disposal. Let’s take a look at some of the key battles: Full Cricket Scorecard, New Zealand vs South Africa, 1st ODI, Hamilton
Trent Boult vs Quinton de Kock: Boult, in the only T20I, displayed savagery with the ball picking up 2 wickets and giving away merely 8 runs from his quota of four overs. Boult’s form off-late has been dicey in the past ODI series, but a riveting contest on cards is surely bound to rev-up his morale. De Kock, on the other hand, has been South Africa’s most belligerent batsman in the top order. He alone can demoralise opponents in a matter of few overs. 1st ODI Preview: Will SA maintain momentum?
Kane Williamson vs Imran Tahir: New Zealand skipper Williamson has been the side’s most consistent batsman in the past year or so. His ability to anchor the innings and take charge can easily be described as one of his most fruitful abilities. Tahir, meanwhile, has been devastating to say the least. His accuracy and guile has been a treat for all to see. Williamson’s stability and Tahir’s persistence will definitely be a mouth-watering affair.
Faf du Plessis vs Mitchell Santner: South Africa’s Test and T20I skipper du Plessis has been dishing out runs like a cake walk. Du Plessis’ dominance has been quite prominent in 2017, with 410 runs in ODIs in 2017. Santner, who was expected to spell doom for batsmen, has clearly struggled. He in a bid to pick wickets has been bowling quicker, while missing out on his prime weapon trajectory.
Chris Morris vs Ross Taylor: Morris, who initiated a collapse in the T20I game on Friday, will be expected to do the same. Morris’s ability to turn games from any position is extraordinary. His recent exploits with the bat are also scary for his opponents. One of the cornerstones of Kiwi batting, Taylor will be hopeful of run coming from the middle of his bat. Post his eye operation, his batting has been more old school than new age slam-bang.
AB de Villiers vs Colin de Grandhomme : Back at the helm of affairs, de Villiers will be under immense pressure to keep South Africa’s winning streak going. His form with the bat will also be under the scanner. De Grandhomme, in the recent past has been New Zealand’s most improved all rounder, and will be expected to curb the flow of runs. De Grandhomme already has a psychological advantage over de Villiers, getting his wicket in the T20I match.
