The World Cup finally reaches the semi-final stage, with the best four teams fighting it out. The Sri Lanka v New Zealand match will be a close contest. In their previous encounter, the Kiwis struggled to counter Chaminda Vaas and Muttiah Muralitharan and the Kiwi bowling also lacked penetration, with the Lankans winning comfortably.

On paper, the Sri Lankans are better but the Jamaica pitch will suit the New Zealand bowlers more so it should be a close game.

However, the match of the World Cup promises to be the South Africa-Australia encounter at St.Lucia. Australia hold a slight edge in both batting and bowling.  Given the history of tight matches, this one will be a close encounter of the third kind (remember the semi-final in the 1999 World Cup and last year's 400-plus run chase by the Proteas?)

If South Africa are to win, they need to get Matthew Hayden early. Makaya Ntini, Shaun Pollock and Andre Nel  are crucial, given the lack of a world-class spinner.

But there is one department where the all-conquering Aussies may be vulnerable - the bowling. Shaun Tait in particular has been very expensive, and he will easily undo the good work of Glenn McGrath and Nathan Bracken. The trump card of the Aussies could be Brad Hogg, who has been a revelation, picking up wickets at crucial times. The return of Shane Watson will also be a boost. 

So bring on the semis!

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