Champions Trophy: Ponting Favors SA Over NZ but Cautions on ‘Big-Game’ Williamson

Dubai, March 4 (NationPress) Renowned Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting has identified South Africa as the frontrunners in their ICC Champions Trophy semi-final clash against New Zealand, emphasizing the Proteas' superior class and strength in their team composition. Nonetheless, he cautioned that if Kane Williamson hits his stride, he could decisively influence the match in New Zealand's favor.

During his analysis on ICC Review on Tuesday, Ponting evaluated both teams and expressed that South Africa’s robust and powerful batting order provides them with a competitive advantage, reminiscent of India.

"When I compare both sides, I see that South Africa’s line-up possesses a bit more class. Their batting depth is impressive. They might simply have too much strength for New Zealand," Ponting remarked.

While recognizing New Zealand’s capability to excel in high-pressure moments, Ponting underscored the critical role of their senior batsman, Kane Williamson.

"Williamson must score runs for them in this match. Every team relies on their star players to perform in crucial moments. Big matches bring out big players. The Champions Trophy semi-finals are as significant as it gets. Williamson is exceptional in pressure situations and understands the magnitude of his responsibility. I wouldn't be shocked if he rises to the occasion," he stated.

Williamson has experienced a mixed tournament, facing challenges in earlier games but recently showcased his talent with an impressive 81-run performance against India in the last group-stage match. Ponting is convinced that for New Zealand to achieve an upset, Williamson must lead from the front.

Despite Williamson's importance for the Black Caps, Ponting pointed out that South Africa's formidable batting lineup, including Ryan Rickelton, Temba Bavuma, Aiden Markram, David Miller, and Heinrich Klaasen, could create significant challenges.

"South Africa's batting depth is akin to that of India. With a world-class all-rounder like Marco Jansen and players like Bavuma, Markram, Miller, and Klaasen, their middle order is exceptionally strong. If Klaasen enters around the 30-over mark with only two or three wickets down, he can be extremely dangerous," Ponting cautioned.

Klaasen, often considered one of the top T20 batsmen globally, has the potential to change the game in the 50-over format. However, Ponting noted that his matchup against New Zealand’s leading spinner, Mitchell Santner, could be pivotal.

"Klaasen excels against spin, but Santner is a clever left-arm spinner. I believe they may initiate with spin against him. The outcome of that contest could influence the match's result," he added.

Ponting also highlighted two crucial matchups that could determine the semi-final’s outcome. The first involves South Africa's in-form opener, Ryan Rickelton, who has consistently provided solid starts, and New Zealand’s top pacer, Matt Henry, who has been outstanding with the ball.

"Rickelton has been remarkable, scoring a significant century recently. Conversely, Henry has excelled for New Zealand, achieving a five-wicket haul. That confrontation will be quite fascinating," Ponting observed.

The second critical battle is between Heinrich Klaasen and Mitchell Santner during the middle overs. With Klaasen known for his aggressive approach against spin and Santner’s skill in maintaining pressure, Ponting believes that the winner of this duel could tip the game in their team's favor.

One aspect of New Zealand’s strategy that took Ponting by surprise was their frequent alterations at the top of the order. The Black Caps began the tournament with Will Young and Devon Conway as openers but introduced Rachin Ravindra against India in their last group-stage game.

"I found those changes surprising. Over the years, both Conway and Young have shown consistency. Will Young has performed well, but I would revert to Conway at the top to maintain a left-right combination," he suggested.