New Zealand coach tips Sri Lanka over South Africa

Wednesday, 18 March 2015 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

AFP: WELLINGTON: New Zealand coach Mike Hesson suspects Sri Lanka could be too good for South Africa in the opening World Cup quarterfinal in Sydney on Wednesday, but much will depend on the toss.

There is intense interest in the outcome as the winner will play the victor of the New Zealand-West Indies quarterfinal in Wellington on Saturday. South Africa were one of the World Cup favourites, but have a reputation as chokers. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, were beaten 4-2 by New Zealand before the tournament but have worked their way into commanding form since. “That’s a massive game,” Hesson said. “We are on the same side of the draw, so it’ll be interesting at Sydney. I think winning the toss and batting over there’s generally pretty important if it’s going to turn. “I think Sri Lanka are dangerous in those conditions and South Africa are going to have to play well.”