New Zealand has officially secured a spot in the Cricket World Cup semi-finals after Pakistan's recent victory against Sri Lanka did not meet the required run-rate margin. New Zealand players and staff, scattered across various locations in Colombo including a beachside bar and captain Mitchell Santner's hotel room, closely monitored the crucial match.
Following the result, reports indicated the Pakistan Cricket Board fined each player approximately £13,500, citing that penalties apply for poor performances as rewards do for good ones.
New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner described watching the Pakistan-Sri Lanka game as challenging. He stated the team's objective was to reach this stage, emphasizing the single-game elimination format of the semi-finals.
Semi-Final Showdown: New Zealand vs. South Africa
New Zealand is scheduled to face South Africa, the World Cup's only unbeaten side, in Kolkata on Wednesday. South Africa previously defeated New Zealand during the opening group stage.
South Africa captain Aiden Markram commented that past results do not guarantee future outcomes, viewing the semi-final as a new contest for both teams. He also stated that discussions about favorites are subjective.
Santner asserted that both teams approach the semi-final as equals.
He highlighted that reaching this stage was the team's tournament goal and expressed confidence in their ability in one-off matches. Santner also noted that South Africa is in the same position, with one game determining progression to the final.
Pitch Conditions at Eden Gardens
Neither team has played at Eden Gardens during this competition. Both New Zealand and South Africa observed the recent India-West Indies game for potential insights into the pitch conditions.
Santner mentioned receiving information from that game, indicating a good wicket with some dew in the second innings. He suggested that performing well first, regardless of batting or bowling, would place a team in a strong position. Markram also monitored the previous match for pitch indications, stating that the team would observe initial play to develop and execute plans during the game.
Team News and Availability
Both squads are expected to be available. New Zealand will assess Matt Henry's condition after his return to India following the birth of his second child. Jacob Duffy is a possible inclusion if Henry is affected by jetlag. Santner confirmed Henry would undergo a fitness assessment in the morning to determine his readiness for the match.