What is big in cricket, as far as memory runs I think a game - one like this is! Nothing as a virtual winner take all has sprung in the ongoing cricket carnival yet - but here is one standing on the brink.
When the tournament begun none would have fathomed the top ODI campaigners, South Africa, would linger against England for the semifinal spot - but after nothing their way in the tournament here are the two facing each other in what is a virtual quarterfinal.
Kensington Oval is the venue and alls at stake for both - Proteas have the edge considering the resent and overall head-to-head record, but the English would be out to give their dejected fan following something to cherish i.e. the semifinal spot in the World Cup (they haven’t managed since last fifteen years).
South Africa is perhaps the favorites though, their performance in crunch games is what bothers me - the Proteas are the most vulnerable side (barring West Indies) Oh! India, not worth considering - and choke when the time runs hard. Whereas, for England - we know what pressure does - the triangular series down under, similar situation against the Kiwis, England didn’t just beat them in the semis but also went on to knockout the Kangaroo’s for the title.
Skipper Vaughan, Freddie’s form and the South African born Pietersen’s sublime touch will be the key for the English who are yet to win a match against a major opposition at the World Cup but still have a bright chance to creep into the semifinals, while the top order clicking and Shaun Pollock delivering will be the means to see the Proteas through.
South Africa has 6 points in the super eight stage thus far and England has 4 - with two points to play for, the pendulum could swing either way. If England perches a win the points tie and then the runrate will decide - so both teams will also look to maintain a good runrate. So guys we are definitely in for a cracker, don’t miss it.
