That was a year ago; hardly recent. Back then they had less to lose because we were number one. :wink: Besides, SA have had a pretty poor away record.

And the thing with Woolmer is definitely sad. People may not always have agreed with him, but he was definitely a universally respected coach and an erudite sportsman.

Ok..... Fair point... and now I know I'm just being stubborn, but the side that beat Australia a year ago, hasn't changed. It's still the same team with a whole year more practise! :)

Let the game begin!

Besides all the banter... You're right about Bob Woolmer! He was a fantastic coach and did wonders for SA, when he coached us. It must be tough for his family.

Well I agree that South Africa are definitely a favourite to win the Cup, but I just can't see them doing it. They are capable of winning, but that is entirely different from actually winning.

And indeed, from a strong position of 1/184, South Africa lose 9 wickets for 109 runs to fall to a heavy defeat at the hands of Australia.

:oops: :oops: :oops: :oops:

I knew that was coming! :wink:

Anyway, Australia played a fantastic first innings and deserved the victory!!! At the least the super 8 stage is gonna be interesting!

I think Sri Lanka will be a major challenger. They are in crushing form and will have the best chance since 1996 to win the Cup. South Africa have been exposed as being rather one-dimensional and not flexible enough. Still, they are talented and dangerous. New Zealand and England have also looked fairly assured, and NZ carried some good form into Cup. This Cup will definitely be interesting.