New Zealand vs South Africa – 1st Test Match Betting Preview & Prediction
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THE FACTS
When is New Zealand vs South Africa on and what time does it start? New Zealand vs South Africa will take place on Saturday 3rd February, 2024 – 22:00 (UK)
Where is New Zealand vs South Africa taking place? New Zealand vs South Africa will take place at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui
THE LOWDOWN
NEW ZEALAND
Unlike their opponents, New Zealand will have their best Test players available for selection and are set to name a strong side. Kane Williamson has recovered from a hamstring injury and the star batter should feature here. Rachin Ravindra is also likely to play after being called up ahead of Henry Nicholls. Both bowler Kyle Jamieson and batter Tom Blundell are expected to be fit for selection following injuries.
SOUTH AFRICA
It will be a very different South Africa Test team who are attempting to maintain a proud record of having never lost a Test series against the Black Caps. The fact that their captain for the series, batter Neil Brand has yet to be capped international, says it all regarding the inexperienced nature of this Proteas squad, with the majority of their players competing in the SA20 tournament back home. Raynard van Tonder, Ruan de Swardt and Mihlali Mpongwana are three other players expected to make their debut for the South African Test side.
THE PREDICTION
It’s hard enough to win a Test match in New Zealand as a touring nation with your strongest XI, let alone a scratch side. With that in mind, it’s fair to say that South Africa have their work cut out against the Black Caps. They’ll give a good account of themselves and do have players such as David Bedingham, Duanne Olivier and Dane Paterson who are more than good enough to compete strongly vs their opponents. But their depth is lacking with multiple debutants and this well-oiled New Zealand team at home should prove too strong in this opening Test.
BETTING TIP: NEW ZEALAND TO WIN
