New Zealand vs South Africa – 1st Test Match Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
When is New Zealand vs South Africa taking place? Wednesday 16th February, 2022 – 22:00 (UK)
Where is New Zealand vs South Africa taking place? Hagley Oval, Christchurch
What is the expected weather for New Zealand vs South Africa? It is expected to be cool throughout the Test with highs of just 12c and there is a high chance of rain during several days’ play in mostly cloudy conditions otherwise
What channel is New Zealand vs South Africa on? The match will be televised live on BT Sport
Where can I stream New Zealand vs South Africa? The match can be streamed live using the BT Sport app
LAST MEETING
New Zealand vs South Africa – match drawn
THE TEAM NEWS
NEW ZEALAND
- New Zealand’s unbeaten run in Test match series stands at nine but they could only draw in their most recent series against Bangladesh, suffering the embarrassment of losing in their opening clash.
- The Blackcaps will need to be much-improved in this series against an impressive South Africa outfit, especially as they have won just four of 45 Tests against their opponents and in their attempts to improve on that record, they will be without Trent Boult who is on paternity leave.
SOUTH AFRICA
- South Africa have never lost a Test match series against New Zealand and come into this with a superb series win against India behind them after they bounced back brilliantly to claim a 2-1 success having lost the opening game.
- The Proteas will be confident of getting the job done on this tour and have plenty of options at their disposal with both bat and ball with Marco Jansen looking to build on his outstanding start to his international career after taking 19 wickets against the Indians while Sarel Erwee is expected to debut by batting at #3 in the order.
THE PREDICTION
This should be a fascinating Test series between New Zealand and South Africa with the pair doing battle at Christchurch in this opening contest. The Blackcaps will be hoping to improve on a few wretched records against the Proteas but it will not be easy with the tourists boasting an extremely impressive bowling unit. The hosts are also without key man Trent Boult which will make it harder for them to prevail. This contest could go either way but South Africa are favoured owing to their historical advantage against the hosts, although the weather could prevent a result so they should be considered draw no bet.
