Lining Up the Semis

England v Australia: Although the Poms must be sick of having to play the Aussies once more, the group stages would have done much for their self belief. Their top order strokemakers will be happy to return to Centurion, though the likely absence of Stuart Broad will weaken the bowling. Australia remain unconvincing for a top ODI side, and their middle order wobbled during the clashes against Pakistan and the West Indies. The Australians' strength lies, as always, in their ability to find ways to win. Andrew Strauss will be hoping for a break from the runner/run-out line-calls.

Keys: The English mindset (negative against the kiwis, refreshingly positive otherwise), and their advantage in the spin department. Ponting and Hussey, if not shifted early, could take the game away on their own.

New Zealand v Pakistan: A tale of two dissimilar sides coming through similar paths. Both have varied attacks which have been largely responsible for bringing them thus far, and suspect top-orders who managed 300-plus in one game each. Pakistan have generally prevailed easily during their many encounters in big tournaments, but this kiwi side appeals as being just that little more desperate. Pakistan's attack - Asif, Gul, Ajmal and Afridi - boasts more variety and firepower, but as seen in their game against England, NZ will have no qualms bowling first in Jo'burg. Having said that, with nearly half their first choice lineup either ruled out or carrying injuries (coupled with their tendency to stumble at the semifinal hurdle), it will be one of the more incredible stories in recent times if the kiwis make it through.

Keys: Mohammad Yousuf is the one class batsman on either side, and the most likely to rise above mediocrity if the conditions continue to favour the bowlers. Otherwise, if Pakistan do maintain their good showing in this tournament, it may well be in spite of themselves. For the kiwis, their top four assume utmost importance; the lengthy lower-middle order appears extremely vulnerable to a reverse-swinging onslaught. In the bowling, a lot hinges on the support for the Bond-Mills opening pair.