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Kepler Wessels backs Proteas to end 'confident' Kiwis' unbeaten run in WC semifinal tie

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ANI Wellington

Former South African captain Kepler Wessels has backed the AB de Villiers led squad to beat New Zealand in their World Cup semifinal tie if they play to the best of their abilities.

Wessels, who had a lengthy Test and ODI career with Australia before leading native South Africa team out of international wilderness in the post-apartheid era, feels that the De Villiers led team has the style to bring an end to New Zealand's unbeaten run in the 2015 edition of the tournament.

Wessels claimed that against South Africa the attacking approach New Zealand have used in the tournament so far could lead to their downfall, adding that De Villiers' men would create far more pressure during this crucial encounter than most of the other teams have done so far in the event, Stuff.co.nz reported.

 

The former skipper claimed that this pressure may cause the rampant Kiwis to implode. He pointed that that South Africa beat New Zealand comfortably a few months ago, adding that it was admittedly a weakened that saw the hosts suffer due to injury problems.

However, Wessels added that the South African team proved during that series that they are well suited to New Zealand conditions.

Wessels also said that although he is not for one minute underestimating the challenge that South Africa face at this juncture, he has always felt that they have the beating of New Zealand if they play to the best of their ability.

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First Published: Mar 23 2015 | 3:23 PM IST

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