Pakistan still implode at times but tend to bring some of their best
games to major tournaments. They have also tempered their fiery side
with reason and both have been on display in equal measure in the group
stage and even before that, in series against Australia and Sri Lanka.
Combined, those two contrasting styles could result in a Pakistan side
that consistently performs as well as they have done of late.
They defended a decent total against a determined New Zealand line-up
and then turned on the heat when they hunted down Bangladesh's score
ruthlessly. Importantly, their top three all have runs to their name and
each of the bowlers, particularly Saeed Ajmal, have seen success.
South Africa also take confidence into this round. They have had one
all-too-easy encounter (against Zimbabwe) and one severely reduced match
(a seven-over-a-side shootout against Sri Lanka) and managed not to get
carried away by the former or spooked by the latter. Their philosophy
when playing major tournaments appears to have changed. AB de Villiers
spoke about not needing to win every game but building to a crescendo
but South Africa have so far won and built at the same time.
Having been on tour since the beginning of July, Gary Kirsten has
stressed the importance of being fresh to his men. They had two days off
in Bentota before they resumed training, which was describe as "lengthy
and intensive" by the coaching staff. Surprisingly, they do not have a
certain starting line-up as they try to keep an aura of mystery about
them in their bid for ICC silverware.
Form guide
(completed matches, most recent first)
South Africa WWLWW
Pakistan WWLTW
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