New Zealand all-rounder Mitchell Santner believes his team’s unbeaten run at the World Cup has been a triumph of collective skill, but he said they will be tested by an unpredictable Pakistan side in their next match at Edgbaston on Wednesday, according to a media report.
The Kiwis are currently at the top of the table with 11 points from six matches, with captain Kane Williamson winning plaudits for racking up 373 runs at an average of 186.50.
But with only West Indies scoring more than 250 against New Zealand, and fast bowlers Lockie Ferguson and Trent Boult combining to take 22 wickets, Santner feels it has been an all-round effort with each member playing their part, news agency Reuters reported.
New Zealand’s campaign has been built on a string of close wins, having edged out Bangladesh, South Africa and West Indies in tight finishes.
On the other hand, a resurgent Pakistan team claimed a comfortable win over South Africa at Lord’s on Sunday.
But now, Pakistan must must beat the in-form Kiwis at Edgbaston to keep alive their chances of qualifying for the semi-finals, according to Pakistan bowling coach Azhar Mahmood.
The 2017 Champions Trophy winners showed signs of resurgence against the Proteas, with openers Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam adding 81 for the first wicket and fast bowler Mohammad Amir taking his wickets tally to 15 for the tournament.
Mahmood was pleased with Pakistan’s all-round display heading into the business end of the tournament, but warned his players it will count for nothing if they do no take their chances in the opening power-plays against New Zealand.
