On Wednesday, the cricketing action will once again move to Lahore, Pakistan, where South Africa will face New Zealand in the second semi-final. South Africa topped Group B, while New Zealand finished second in Group A. The Proteas have had a hectic travel schedule, moving from Karachi to Dubai and then from Dubai to Lahore within three days.
Initially, the first semi-final was set to be held in Dubai, and it was uncertain whether India would face Australia or South Africa. Had India finished second in their group, they would have played against South Africa. As a result, both Australia and South Africa traveled to Dubai. However, once it was confirmed that India would play against Australia, South Africa had to leave Dubai and head to Lahore.
Performance So Far (SA vs NZ in ICC ODI Events)
South Africa has performed well in the tournament so far, securing wins against Afghanistan and England. Their match against Australia was washed out due to rain. On the other hand, New Zealand defeated Pakistan and Bangladesh but suffered a loss against India.
When it comes to ICC tournaments, South Africa has never beaten New Zealand in a knockout match. In the 11 encounters between the two teams in ICC ODI tournaments, New Zealand has won 7 times, while South Africa has won 4. In the Champions Trophy, both teams are evenly matched—New Zealand won in 2006, while South Africa triumphed in 2009.
However, in ICC ODI knockout matches, New Zealand has the upper hand. They have faced South Africa twice in World Cup knockout games. In the 2011 quarter-final, New Zealand defeated South Africa by 49 runs. In the 2015 World Cup semi-final, New Zealand won a thrilling contest by six wickets.
Lahore Pitch Report (Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore)
Despite the hectic travel schedule, South Africa will enjoy playing in Lahore due to the flat batting-friendly pitch, which is a paradise for batsmen. Their powerful batting lineup makes them strong contenders on this surface.
Lahore has witnessed high-scoring encounters, including one of the biggest chases in the tournament’s history when Australia chased down England’s 351-run target by scoring 356. New Zealand will also be pleased as this pitch suits their batters well. The toss will be crucial because dew is expected in the evening, which could make it difficult for bowlers.
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Lahore Weather Forecast
Rain has affected many matches in Pakistan, but for this semi-final, the chances of rain are minimal. The temperature is expected to be around 22°C, with 47% humidity and wind speed of 19 km/h.
South Africa Probable XI
There is uncertainty regarding Aiden Markram’s fitness before the match. George Linde has been included as his backup. However, captain Temba Bavuma and Tony de Zorzi are fully fit.
- Ryan Rickelton
- Temba Bavuma (C)
- Rassie van der Dussen
- Aiden Markram/Tristan Stubbs
- Heinrich Klaasen
- David Miller
- Marco Jansen
- Wiaan Mulder
- Keshav Maharaj
- Kagiso Rabada
- Lungi Ngidi
New Zealand Probable XI
- Will Young
- Rachin Ravindra
- Kane Williamson
- Daryl Mitchell
- Tom Latham
- Glenn Phillips
- Michael Bracewell
- Mitchell Santner (C)
- Kyle Jamieson
- Matt Henry
- William O’Rourke
What Happens If the Match Is Cancelled Due to Rain?
The ICC has set a reserve day for the semi-finals and final. If rain interrupts the match and it cannot be completed, it will resume from the same point on the reserve day.
If rain also washes out the match on the reserve day, the team that finished higher in the group stage will qualify for the final. Since South Africa topped Group B, they will advance to the final if the match is completely abandoned. However, the ICC will make every effort to ensure that both teams get to play at least 25 overs each so that the Duckworth-Lewis method can determine a result.