BBC News Online: Sport: 1999 Cricket World Cup: Match Previews

Stewart hoping to tame SA

Fresh from their 89 run victory over Sri Lanka on Wednesday, Hansie Cronje's team will be looking to extend their lead at the top of the table.

But England, too, have hit form. Tying on points with South Africa and behind only marginally because of a slower run-rate, captain Alec Stewart will be demanding the same performance from his side that saw them defeat holders Sri Lanka by eight wickets in their opening match.

England are expected to bring back Adam Hollioake, a batsman-seamer, instead of off spinner Robert Croft, who played against Kenya, for a game that could prove crucial for both teams.

Stewart's men may perhaps look back to their recent series victory over South Africa for inspiration - though their one-day record is a little less admirable with one win in the last nine matches and two in 12.

But South Africa too, have frequently looked shaky.

Cronje: 'Hell of a contest'

"There were times when we could easily have lost our way," Cronje said of his side's Group A matches.

South Africa lost both tosses, against India and Sri Lanka, and both times made bad starts.

Against Sri Lanka, a seaming wicket, poor strokes and some dubious umpiring decisions combined to see them slump to 122 for eight.

"But it is no use feeling sorry for yourself," Cronje admitted.

"Whats happened is in the past. You have got to stay calm and try and get on with winning the game.

"England are playing well, we are playing well. Its going to be a hell of a contest."

England have lost only three wickets in two matches, with Stewart, Nasser Hussain and Graeme Hick all in good form.

The downside, however, is that few batsmen have yet had an innings and Stewart is more than willing to accept that his side are underdogs.

"South Africa are the form side and deserve to be the tournament favourites, but it's all down to how each side plays on the day," Stewart said.

"England against South Africa in any sport is big, but especially in cricket."

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