1st ODI: Franklin targets series win over South Africa

NZ allrounder pleased with display, Proteas lose number one ODI ranking.

CAPE TOWN: James Franklin, who was adjudged man of the match in New Zealand’s upset one-wicket win over South Africa at Paarl on Saturday, aims to wrap up the series when they take on the Proteas in the second One-Day International (ODI) tomorrow at Kimberley.

The tourists were guided by Franklin who was 47 not out as they chased 209 to win.

“It was hard work out there and we’re under no illusions that we have to be at our best to compete with them,” said Franklin. “We don’t have a great track record here but we’ve now got a chance of maybe winning an ODI.”

The loss also cost the Proteas their number one International Cricket Council ODI ranking as they are now placed third behind India (first) and England (second).

De Villiers suspended for remainder of series

Meanwhile, South Africa ODI captain AB de Villiers will miss the last two matches after being suspended for a slow over rate in the first match.

The South African players will lose their entire match fee after it was found South Africa were six overs short of their target even after time allowances were taken into account.

Left-handed batsman David Miller has been named as De Villiers’ replacement. Twenty20 captain Faf du Plessis will captain the team after vice-captain Hashim Amla asked not to be considered in order to concentrate on his batting.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 21^st, 2013.