ICC Champions Trophy semi-final: Five match-ups that could decide Proteas v New Zealand

South Africa and New Zealand are set to meet in the second semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy in Lahore on Wednesday (11am SA time start).

Ongama Gcwabe picks five match-ups to keep an eye on as the two teams vie for a spot in the final later this week...

David Miller v Matt Henry

The battle between South Africa’s finisher David Miller and New Zealand’s trusted new ball and ‘death’ overs bowler Matt Henry may decide the fate of the two teams in Lahore on Wednesday. Both have excelled in their roles at the end of matches in ICC events, making this clash one to watch. Can Henry contain the explosive Miller at the ‘death’?

Wiaan Mulder v Glenn Phillips

As all-rounders, Mulder and Phillips bring great balance in their teams. Both have some of the safest hands in world cricket, with Phillips a specialist in the gully-point region, while Mulder’s credentials at slip are second to none. Both have form going into the semi-final, and their contributions will go a long way in deciding which of the two teams will progress to the final.

Ryan Rickelton v Kyle Jamieson

Having grown up playing on the bouncy wickets on the highveld, it should be interesting to see how Ryan Rickelton goes against the bounce that the two-metre-tall Kyle Jamieson generates at the Gaddafi Stadium. With Jamieson’s skill with the new ball and Rickelton’s form in the tournament, this match-up promises blockbuster entertainment.

Kagiso Rabada v Kane Williamson

This is one mouth-watering showdown. As the leader of the attack, Kagiso Rabada has a lot of weight on his shoulders. But so does Kane Williamson as he leads the Black Caps’ batting unit. With Rabada operating with the new ball and Williamson batting at No 3, the two will most certainly meet – and it will be a test of skill and ability to perform under pressure.

Marco Jansen v Rachin Ravindra

The two players are some of the most exciting up-and-coming youngsters in the respective teams. Rachin Ravindra has an incredible appetite for big runs and Marco Jansen’s skills with the new ball are right up there with some of the best in the world. With Ravindra opening the batting, he will get tested by Jansen’s pace and bounce upfront.