The Proteas are preparing for yet another series that is being built up as a battle of the bowlers after beating India in a series win that came as a shock to many.
The South Africans managed to fend off the frightening Indian pace bowling attack and also outperformed them in the batting department. They will next face the Kiwis in their own backyard, as the two sides are slated to play a two-match Test series in Christchurch.
South African captain Dean Elgar has expressed confidence in his side’s ability to pull off another series win against the World Test Champions New Zealand and also backed his batsmen to score big.
He also said that the Indian fast bowling contingent was a shade better than the Kiwi attack, and since his side had already done well against the Indians, he was optimistic that the NZ series would be no different.
“With respect, New Zealand’s attack are a little bit down on pace compared to the Indian attack,”
Elgar said, as he spoke from New Zealand’s quarantine facility.
New Zealand last faced Bangladesh in a two-match Test series, which was also stalwart batsman Ross Taylor’s last appearance in whites for the Black Caps. The Kiwis were stunned in the first Test by the Bangla Tigers before taking the second Test to level matters.
Elgar also acknowledged that the pitch will favour the quick bowlers, with the Hagley Oval being known as one of the quickest in the country. Senior fast bowler Trent Boult will miss the series as he awaits the birth of his child, while Tim Southee, Neil Wagner, Matt Henry, and Kyle Jamieson feature in the Kiwi squad.
South Africa have filled their side with quicks, as Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, Duanne Olivier, and Lungi Ngidi getting a spot.
“The rivalry is pretty deep. They play cricket pretty similarly to us. They are extremely proud, extremely passionate and their bowlers are quality. We are aware of their ability. We respect that. And it’s going to be a great test for us to match ourselves and compare ourselves with a team that’s playing at their peak.”
Elgar said as he spoke about the two teams’ rivalry.
Keegan Petersen, who was the highest run-getter in the series against India, will miss out after contracting Covid-19, while Sarel Erwee and Zubayr Hamza will look to capture the empty spot.
The first Test match between the two sides will begin on February 17, at Christchurch, and the Kiwis will be looking to capture their first series win against the Proteas.
