Australia and New Zealand rivalry is renewed in a Himalayan setting at the Cricket World Cup
Australia and New Zealand o n S a t u r d ay i n a Himalayan setting for their trans-Tasman clash — the final game of the tournament at Dharamsala.
Both teams have played five games — New Zealand are placed third with 8 points from four wins and trail second-place South Africa on net run-rate. Australia have won three out of five games and is placed fourth with 6 points.
For New Zealand, it marks the beginning of a tough run of games.
After Australia, it takes on South Africa (Nov. 2), Pakistan (Nov.
4) and Sri Lanka (Nov. 9). All of their final four opponents are still in the running for a semifinal spot.
In the absence of Kane Williamson and Tim Southeee, the Black Caps did well to win their first four games against England, the Netherlands, Afghanistan and Bangladesh.
They then lost to India in Dharamsala, and it wasn’t a one-sided game as the hosts were made to work hard in the 274-run chase. Given the topsy-turvy nature of results in this tournament, including three shock upsets so far, New Zealand will need at least two more wins in their remaining four games to guarantee a top four spot.
Southee had been available for selection for the last game, but New Zealand opted to go in with their settled bowling attack. With Williamson still a doubtful starter, New Zealand aren’t expected to make any changes. Their biggest question isn’t regarding personnel — instead, it is about rebounding from the loss against India and gearing up for a tough run-in leading to the semfinals.
Australia have turned their tournament around after a poor start, losing to India and South Africa in their opening games. They were even placed 10th on the table at one stage. Since then, the five-time champions have made a remarkable recovery
