The five-match T20 series between New Zealand and South Africa is tied 2-2. Both teams have won two matches each, making today’s final match a decider.
James Neesham: We will bowl first. Not too worried. It looks like a pretty cool contest. There is a bit of grass on the pitch, which should help the ball move quicker, so that’s a positive. It’s always great to be back at Hagley Oval. There is definitely more experience in the group playing here now. We’ve spent a lot of time at this venue, and it’s always a fantastic place for cricket. The crowd comes in numbers and creates a wonderful atmosphere. With the series on the line tonight, it’s an important game, and hopefully we can put on a good show for them.
Keshav Maharaj: Taking a little cue from the women’s game played earlier, we actually wanted to bat first. It looked like the better option, especially if the pitch held up the way it did, so yes, batting first was probably the plan. Yes, it is definitely useful. You have to be aware of the weather a bit overnight, but generally the conditions don’t change much. This gives you a good reference point, especially from a bowling perspective for correct lines and lengths to hit. And from a batting point of view, it helps you identify scoring areas, be it the square of the wicket, offside or straight down the ground.
New Zealand (Playing XI): Tim Robinson, Keitan Clarke, Dean Cleaver (w), Nick Kelly, Bevan Jacobs, James Neesham (c), Josh Clarkson, Cole McConchie, Zachary Foulkes, Kyle Jamieson, Ben Sears.
South Africa (Playing XI): Wayne Mulder, Tony De Zorzi, Connor Esterhuizen (W), Robin Herman, Jason Smith, Diane Forster, George Linde, Gerald Coetzee, Keshav Maharaj (C), Prenlin Subran, Otnel Baartman
