Jacques Kallis - South Africa still capable

Profiles / Editor / 15 April 2007 / Leave a Comment

Jacques Kallis says South Africa are ready for whatever England throw at them in Tuesday's crunch Super 8 clash in Barbados and that they still capable of winning the World Cup.

The talented all-rounder is aware how big the match has become because of the Proteas' failure to see off Bangladesh and New Zealand, which leaves them vulnerable to elimination by struggling England.

Michael Vaughan's side are yet to fire as a batting or bowling unit, but can move ahead of South Africa in the Super 8 standings with any victory on Tuesday because of the advantage they hold in net run rate.
But Kallis believes his side are ready for the challenge of Natal-born Kevin Pietersen and England's other big players, who have so far failed to deliver.

"Losing to Bangladesh was a result that could come back to bite us but if we can put in three big performances now we could still end up with the World Cup in our hands," he said.

"We've got to make sure we're on top of our game against England and take any half-chances.
"England are a good one-day side and we're not going to take them lightly. We have to make sure we're on top of our games.
"They have a few big-match players, a few guys to watch out for, but we'll have a few plans. We've had a good look at their side over the years and know where their strengths and weaknesses are.

"Most guys would take having to win three games to win the World Cup. We know what's ahead of us. I believe we're capable of doing it and everyone in the team believes we're capable of doing it."

South Africa are the 1.56 favourites in Betfair's Match Odds market for the clash at the Kensington Oval with England rated a 2.62 prospect for victory.

Australia continue to hold all the aces as far as winning the tournament outright is concerned, heading Betfair's World Cup winner's market at 2.24 with South Africa now out to 7.6 following defeat to New Zealand (5.8) and England an unfancied 19.5.