Kane Williamson is under no illusions that it’s going to take a much improved effort for the BLACKCAPS to beat South Africa come the second ODI, but remains confident all the same.
The 21 year-old made 55 in the first ODI against the tourists on Saturday, but was part of a losing effort as South Africa went on to claim a six wicket victory in Wellington.
Williamson conceded it was a lack lustre performance from the side, but says the result didn’t reflect how tight the game really was.
“It’s obviously disappointing, but we did a lot of things well and the game was probably a lot closer than it seemed,” Williamson said.
“I think there were opportunities in the game, run outs etc, that needed to be taken to get ahead of a team like South Africa.
“We know that so we’re working really hard to take those opportunities.”
Williamson was full of praise for his own sides bowling attack, but also showed a lot of respect for the South African’s attack, in particular Daryl Steyn.
“He’s a world-class bowler and it’s a great challenge and it’s exciting to play against guys like that.
“Steyn swings it well and that’s his main threat, while Morne (Morkel) bowls more back of a length, so they bring different challenges.”
“Our bowling attack has done a great job in the last couple of month. They performed really well last night and it’s just a shame they didn’t pick up that fourth wicket early on, but that’s the way it goes.”
All eyes now turn to Napier for the second of the ODI – A must win for the BLACKCAPS to stay in the series.
Williamson says there were many positives to take from the game at Westpac, but admits it will take a much more complete performance from the entire side to get the job done at McLean Park.
“We’re against a really strong side and we need to play better to beat them.”
The second ODI in The National Bank Series is on Wednesday at McLean Park, Napier.