The South African skipper is not expecting an easy time against the Black Caps’ attack in Lahore in Wednesday.
Bavuma wary of NZ bowlers ahead of Champions Trophy semi-final
South African captain Temba Bavuma has lauded the “formidable” New Zealand bowling attack ahead of Wednesday’s 2025 Champions Trophy semi-final in Lahore.
The Proteas enter the knockout match as marginal favourites at -125 across cricket betting sites, with the Black Caps paying +100 for the win.
However, Bavuma has reason to respect the Kiwi attack, which boasts the tightest economy rate and most dot balls outside of finalists India.
“New Zealand’s bowling is formidable — quite a disciplined bowling attack,” he said.
“Up front the guys with the new ball don’t give you much to score from.
“You’ve got to be decisive as an opening batter, and then in the middle, you’ve got guys again who are able to squeeze the game and force you to make mistakes.
“We know as batters we’re going to have to work hard.
“We’re going to have to bat ourselves into a position where we can make the play against them.”
While South Africa’s bowling lineup has not been quite as impressive on the stat sheet, Bavuma is still confident his team will be able to trouble New Zealand.
“We’re also quite confident in our bowling,” he said.
“It’ll be a good show on offer between the two bowling attacks.
“I don’t think there’s a lot between them.”
The last time New Zealand and South Africa met in ODI cricket was just three weeks ago, with the Black Caps cantering to victory off the back of Kane Williamson’s 14th century in the format.
Bavuma is not concerned about his team’s recent loss to their semi-final opponents, however, and actually sees it as an advantage.
“It gave us a look at that New Zealand team,” he said.
“That team we played against — I don’t think it’ll be too far to what they’ll put out tomorrow.
“We have different members obviously. I guess there’s a difference there.
“When we played, it was a good wicket, but the last game here, between Australia and Afghanistan, the ball swung quite a bit.”
The winner of Wednesday’s clash will have to defy the odds the claim the title, as top bookmaker Nags.bet has India as clear favourites at -277.78 in Champions Trophy outright betting.
Disclaimer: It is your responsibility to abide by gambling and sports betting laws in your jurisdiction. The information provided on BettingPlanet.com is accurate to the best of our knowledge but should be used as a guide only.
