After an abject display in the opening match of the series, the Proteas will target a big improvement against New Zealand in Christchurch.
New Zealand will be brimming with confidence despite some high-profile absences.
New Zealand vs South Africa | 25 February – 1 March | Hagley Oval, Christchurch
To Win Match
New Zealand 5/10 | Draw 5/1 | South Afric 33/10a
New Zealand
New Zealand didn’t appear to miss either Kane Williamson, making over 400 runs in their single innings, or Trent Boult, as they bowled South Africa out in a hurry in both digs.
The star pair remain will remain absent and we expect New Zealand to opt for an unchanged combination for the second Test.
Paceman Matt Henry was the surprise package, stepping into the void left by Boult, while Tim Southee and Neil Wagner maintained incredible levels as well.
New Zealand bat deep and have an accomplished middle-order making them a team that is difficult to bowl out without concerted effort.
South Africa
There were few positives for the Proteas to take from the first Test and the ready excuse of quarantine has been dismissed by the squad.
The batting was poor but so was the catching which prevented South Africa from getting back into the match.
It is just one match though and one should be wary of drawing too many conclusions from that performance.
Lungi Ngidi is unlikely to be fit, dealing another blow to the Proteas who missed the quick’s skillset in the first Test.
Verdict: New Zealand 5/10
The Proteas will be hard-pressed to turn this around in Christchurch, especially after such a poor showing in their first outing.
