New Zealand’s cricket team feels confident heading into their Champions Trophy semi-final against South Africa, having previously won matches at the Lahore venue. Coach Gary Stead praised the team’s recent performances during the Pakistan tri-series and anticipates that the same pace trio will be effective against South Africa, despite the changes in their opponent’s lineup.
New Zealand’s cricket team expressed their sense of good fortune as they prepare to face South Africa in the Champions Trophy semi-final in Lahore. Coach Gary Stead noted that their previous successes at this venue during warm-up matches instilled a strong sense of confidence in the team. Earlier in the tournament, the Kiwis had a notable victory against South Africa, defeating them by six wickets three weeks ago, and secured an additional win against Pakistan at the same ground.
Stead remarked on the positive emotions returning to Lahore has evoked, stating, “We are lucky. We’ve had some experience playing here in the tri-series before the tournament actually kicked off.” The coach highlighted the value of their on-ground experience in preparing for this critical match.
Despite a loss to India in a spin-friendly condition in Dubai, New Zealand’s pace attack, consisting of Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, and Will O’Rourke, performed admirably by limiting India to a modest score of 249. Stead indicated that the team is likely to maintain this attack while incorporating spin support from their all-rounders, similar to their previous match against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi.
New Zealand has demonstrated consistency, scoring over 300 runs in their last two victories in Lahore. Stead emphasized the importance of claiming wickets in the early and middle overs to prevent South Africa from establishing a dominant batting performance. He acknowledged the uncertainty of the pitch condition but noted that typical batting surfaces in the region offer good conditions for scoring.
South Africa, however, will field a markedly different team compared to the one that faced New Zealand in the tri-series. Stead suggested the potential inclusion of left-arm wrist spinner Tabraiz Shamsi, who has not played during the Champions Trophy, possibly replacing paceman Lungi Ngidi. He concluded by recognizing South Africa’s formidable lineup, stating, “They’re a very, very good side and we’re going to have to play right near our best to beat them.”
In summary, New Zealand feels well-prepared and optimistic as they approach their semi-final match against South Africa in Lahore, buoyed by successful prior performances at the venue. Coach Gary Stead highlights the significance of their recent experiences in Pakistan and the effectiveness of their bowling attack. The Kiwis recognize the challenges posed by a revamped South African side but remain confident in their ability to compete at a high level.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
