New Zealand will look to finish a maiden Test collection win over South Africa and savour uncommon air on the high of the world rankings with victory over the ailing vacationers within the second and last match beginning on Friday in Christchurch.
Though missing injured captain Kane Williamson and tempo spearhead Trent Boult, the World Test champions had been unstoppable within the first assembly in Christchurch, subjecting South Africa to their second-worst Test defeat ever.
New Zealand have suffered 90 years of frustration towards the Proteas since being swept 2-0 at residence in 1931/32, however a draw at Hagley Oval could be sufficient to finish the winless streak.
It would additionally full New Zealand’s set of collection wins over Test-playing nations and put them high of the world Test rankings.
Stand-in captain Tom Latham mentioned his crew had been targeted extra on what a win might do for the defence of their World Test Championship than the possibility to erase an historic anomaly.
“On the whole for us it’s about the World Test Championship and you need as many points as possible,” he advised reporters on the eve of the second Test on Thursday.
“Points at home are really vital. Nowadays in international cricket, it’s so hard to win away from home.”
With Boult still on paternity leave, New Zealand will be tempted to stick with the four-prong pace attack that bowled South Africa out for 95 and 111 in the series-opener.
Colin de Grandhomme’s back-up pace was scarcely needed in that match, but Latham said selectors would decide on whether to include an all-rounder after looking at the pitch in the morning.
South Africa’s tour has seemed ill-fated from day one, having to spend 10 days in COVID-19 quarantine upon arrival and then losing paceman Lungi Ngidi to injury.
None of their batsmen made a half-century in the first Test and struggling number three Aiden Markram, who scored 15 and two, looks set to be dropped.
Pace bowler Glenton Stuurman may also make way after a torrid debut in which he conceded 1-124. He could be replaced by two-Test quick Lutho Sipamla, or Keshav Maharaj if selectors opt for a specialist spinner.
Captain Dean Elgar hinted strongly at selection changes and demanded more from his team in all facets of the game.
“It is a little bit frustrating and disappointing that we haven’t fulfilled our ability,” he advised reporters.
“Guys know what’s expected of each individual going into the second Test.”
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