Mike Procter and Vernon Philander share their thoughts ahead of South Africa's Cricket World Cup clash with England at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday.
Mike Procter
“The Proteas meet England in a match which is suddenly vital for two sides who have been beaten by teams which are not expected to reach the knockout stages.
“SA’s loss to the Netherlands is a big blow, having played so well up until then. It’s almost a must win for England because if they lose they will probably have to win every match for the duration of the tournament prior to the semi’s.
“A big day for South African sport…two vital World Cup matches (cricket and rugby) on the same day against the same opposition.
“Compulsive viewing for sure!”
Vernon Philander
“There will be pace, there will be bounce, it’s a small ground so I do feel our top order will take a good liking to this surface. It plays a little like Centurion, and of course with most of our players being highveld players they will really enjoy the ball coming onto the bat.
“Unlike the last game that we played against the Netherlands where there was a bit of seam movement, a bit of tackiness, tis one the guys will really enjoy.
“But in saying that I think it will be a blockbuster in terms of scoring. I think both teams possess good batting lineups, so for me it’s going to boil down to the bowlers, I do feel that, after the last outing, South Africa in the bowling department will want to rectify all their problems.
“And of course having Kagiso, Lungi Ngidi – I do feel we might even see Tabraiz Shamsi in action, I think it’s time that South Africa starts playing a mystery spinner. But all in all, I think with the top order South Africa has, and with the pace and bounce on offer, I will pick South Africa to be favorites in this contest.”
