Rustys begin WC preparation

New Zealand v South Africa

A file picture of Brendon McCullum & AB de Villiers

Scenario

After more than 3 months an awfully long break from International cricket, the black caps gear up for a short One-Day-International series against the South Africans who too were not in action after winning the triangular series in Zimbabwe. This ODI series is nothing but a preparation for the long awaited ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 hosted by Australia and New Zealand. Having said that I don't think the venues are selected perfectly because Mount Maunganui doesn't host any of the World Cup matches yet they have scheduled the first two matches here.

Its a long break by New Zealand no doubt but the schedule for them in the International calendar is packed as they get to host Sri Lanka & Pakistan in individual tours followed by a triangular series against the same opponents immediately followed by the World Cup. Obviously they want to start the season on a high.

 South Africa on the other hand will want to make the most of the opportunity and get used to conditions in New Zealand which could be a big advantage before the World Cup Down Under.

Team Setup

Both New Zealand as well as South Africa have sent in their A+  players for this series as both teams doesn't seem to be experimenting on their players and are rooted on experience. Speaking of experience the return of veteran black cap Daniel Vettori to International duty will add flavor to a delicious cuisine. Ross Taylor's absence could prove to be a loss but thinking otherwise would help.  Both the aggressive Wicket keeper batsmen and also captain counterparts will look to use their aggressive attitude in leading their teams. That is where players like Corey Anderson and David Miller come in handy who are known for their intent towards the game. We all know what damage they both can do with the bat at the death respectively. It a perfect blend of experience and youth.

Wounds are still fresh

The last time these two teams met was back on March 24th in the ICC World Twenty20 where Dale Steyn amazingly stole the match from New Zealand's pocket as the Proteas managed to defend 7 runs off the last over and pull off a great win by 2 runs. New Zealand will surely have that in mind.

Dale Steyn at his very best in the NZ v SA encounter in the WT20

Ground

The Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui has hasted just the one ODI that is between Canada and Netherlands which was a part of the World Cup Qualifiers. There were many other matches played here during that tournament but they were not considered as ODIs. So there is nothing to analyze on this relatively new ground. Win the toss, choose to bowl first is my opinion.