South Africa are favourites heading into their Champions Trophy semifinal clash against New Zealand on Wednesday, with Australian great Ricky Ponting believing the Proteas have “a bit more class and power” in their lineup. Despite New Zealand’s history of punching above their weight in ICC tournaments, Ponting feels South Africa’s deep batting lineup gives them the edge in the knockout contest.
“If I look at both the sides, I think there’s that little bit more class in the South African line-up,” Ponting said on the ICC Review. “They bat deep. I think they might have a little bit too much power for New Zealand. I’m actually going with South Africa to win the contest, as much as I’ve praised New Zealand.”
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Momentum is also on South Africa’s side, coming off a dominant seven-wicket win over England, whereas New Zealand suffered a heavy defeat against India in Dubai. However, Ponting warned that Kane Williamson’s performance could be crucial. “Williamson, I think, needs to make runs for them in this game. Every team needs their big players standing up in big moments. Big games mean big names. And, Williamson is a big-game player—he will understand the enormity of his role going into the game, and I won’t be surprised if he gets the job done.”
Williamson’s 81 against India in the final group game would have given him some confidence, but South Africa’s formidable batting lineup, including Ryan Rickelton, Temba Bavuma, Aiden Markram, David Miller, and Heinrich Klaasen, could be a major challenge for the Kiwis. “Klaasen is such a dangerous player of spin bowling. He’s such a great, clean hitter of spin. If he goes in around the 30-over mark and South Africa are 2-3 down, he can be truly dangerous,” Ponting said.
Ponting identified key match-ups, including Rickelton against Matt Henry and Klaasen against Mitchell Santner. “Rickelton has been outstanding for South Africa at the top. And, Henry has been great for New Zealand, picking up a five-for,” he noted. “Whoever wins that battle might determine the outcome of the game.”
Ponting also questioned New Zealand’s frequent changes to their opening combination. “I was a bit surprised by those guys (Conway and Rachin) going in and out. Over the years, they have both been consistent.”
