South Africa will get the better of Sri Lanka in the World Cup quarters, says Brian Lara.
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South Africa have been stuck with the chokers' tag for several years now for their inability win the crucial matches in big tournaments. Many therefore feel Sri Lanka, have the edge over the Proteas in Wednesday's World Cup quarter-final clash at the Sydney Cricket Ground. However, West Indian legend Brian Lara feels otherwise and said the current South African team is completely different from the ones that choked earlier.(South Africa Eye Knockout Blow)
"This is a South Africa's time for redemption. I am a huge fan of their cricket and I think the Proteas are the outstanding favourites against Sri Lanka on Wednesday," Lara told NDTV.(South Africa Odds-on Favourites to Win vs Sri Lanka)
The former West Indian captain also said South Africa would have reached their first World Cup final way back in 1992, had it not been for a weird rain-rule that robbed them of victory in the semifinal against England.� (Fixtures� |� Full World Cup Coverage)
Lara did not write Sri Lanka off completely but said their weak bowling attack could be a concern. He said South Africa, on other hand, have an all-round side with all bases covered.
"Sri Lanka have a good batting line-up but their bowling attack is ordinary. South Africa have all their bases covered and I think that gives them the edge," said the 45-year-old.
South Africa boast of some of the most aggressive batsmen in the world - Hashim Amla, AB de Villiers, Faf du Plessis and David Miller could give nightmares to most opposition captains. The bowling attack is very strong a well, with the likes of Dale Steyn, Morne Morkel, Vernon Philander and Imran Tahir raring to go.
The Sri Lankans have had their issues with the bowlers. Barring Lasith Malinga, the others have failed to stand up. Rangana Herath's injury has also not helped matters and he is doubtful for the quarter-final.
These two teams have met four times in World Cups with South Africa leading 2-1. Their 2003 encounter was a rain-affected tie which saw the Proteas crash out in the first round.
Lara said the match between these two countries could be the best quarter-final of the tournament. Teams like Pakistan and West Indies barely managed to reach the knockouts while Bangladesh appear to be a bit of a mismatch against world champions India.
"It will be an amazing match but I think South Africa have the edge," Lara said.
South Africa's best performance have been reaching the semis in 1992, 1999 and 2007. Sri Lanka had their moment of glory when they lifted the title in 1996.
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