White Ferns wary as Proteas aim to rebound from big loss
New Zealand know South Africa is 'hurting' from their heavy defeat to England, giving them extra focus for the clash at the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup.
New Zealand and South Africa eye comeback | Will to Win Preview Show | CWC25
Two teams searching for their first wins at the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025, Nikhil Uttamchandani previews New Zealand's clash against South Africa.
Beware a team that's hurting after a heavy defeat. That's the message from White Ferns veteran Suzie Bates, as she prepares for her 350th international match.
New Zealand face South Africa in Indore, on a pitch that has already proven to be fruitful for batting units.
And while the White Ferns - like South Africa - also enter their World Cup match-up coming off a loss, the narrative was very different for New Zealand, as they showed great character under pressure against reigning champions Australia.
"I thought the way we fought with the ball, even though Ash Gardner came out and got 100," Bates told media.
"And then we were two for none. And then the way we stayed in that game with Sophie Devine's outstanding innings, I think we were just really proud of how we fought, and we weren't able to get across the line.
Australia's World Cup campaign off to a winning start | Match Highlights | CWC25
Australia seal a dominant win over New Zealand in their first game at the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025.
"We've just got to put it all out there when it matters. And our bowlers are doing a good job. Our chances are high if we play our best game tomorrow, but we also know South Africa are an extremely good side, and they have been successful at World Cups as well.
"Obviously, South Africa are going to be hurting after their first game. But I don't think we can take too much from that game. Completely different conditions. They batted first, and obviously didn't perform the way they wanted. We've just got to be making sure that we start really strongly with the ball and put them under pressure again. I know how South Africans are, and I'm sure they're going to bounce back."
England claim a thumping win over South Africa | Match Highlights | CWC25
Bowlers deliver an exhibition against the Proteas as England get their ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025 campaign off to a stellar beginning.
Bates' milestone game doubles as a significant occasion for in-form veteran Sophie Devine who will play in her 300th international.
"To think together we have played 650 internationals for the White Ferns is unbelievable," Bates continued.
"We want to make sure that we finish that game on a good note so we can celebrate. But we've got to push those milestones to the side and just be present tomorrow. We'll recognise that it's a special day, but our focus is on making sure we win that game and play well."
Bates optimistic on comeback against Proteas | Pre-match Press Conference | CWC25
New Zealand's seasoned campaigner Suzie Bates is positive her side can bring their ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025 campaign back on track against South Africa.
South Africa are hoping to use this game to get their tournament claims back on track.
"Playing each team, you literally have to take it one game at a time," Proteas' Sinalo Jafta told media.
"Our next opposition is New Zealand. We're not looking ahead. I think for us as a batting unit is to literally just knuckle down and just bat. Don't think too much about the outcome. Just take it one ball at a time.
"It's just to accept what has happened. Then Laura (Wolvaardt) capped it off nicely and said, 'we don't become a bad batting unit overnight'. Obviously, homework was done, and now we’re just looking forward to the next one."
Jafta and Proteas looking to start afresh against White Ferns | Pre-match Press Conference | CWC25
South Africa's Sinalo Jafta speaks ahead of their ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025 fixture against New Zealand.