With both teams having won both matches, it was but natural that they would try hard to gain a psychological advantage for a possible rematch in the Super Six. The Oval, known to produce the best wicket in this country over the years, was not different this time around. The pitch was hard and had enough bounce for both batsmen and bowlers to have a go at each other.

There has been a lot of talk of the extra movement the white ball derives and the bowlers finding it difficult to control. Well, by the manner in which the South African and England bowlers bowled, it's easy to see that it is up to the bowler tocontrol the movement. You just cannot blame the ball for that, and those doing so are merely making an excuse -- for their inability to do so. I've noticed that most of the bowlers who have been regularly playing in English conditions have no trouble in maintaining an adequate line and length.

With Kirsten and Gibbs going about their task in a positive manner, South Africa were off a blazing start. If the team is fortunate to get such a start, it invariably finds itself in the driver's seat straightaway. And the depth in South Africa's batting is such that they boast of the best number 9 batsman in Lance Klusener. Though he came in at No.7 today, he is quite capable of winning the match.

Mullally and Ealham bowled superbly to put the brakes on the South Africans by getting their frontline batsmen out. Mullally, along with Gough, was most impressive. He not only contained the batsmen but got a couple of important wickets by bowling an immaculate line and length. He moved the ball beautiful both ways andused the bounce to his advantage, cramping the batsmen from scoring feeling. The delivery that got the in-form Kallis was a beauty. It was top class stuff alright.

I was, as a matter of fact, surprised that Stewart did not keep him for the final overs. All the same, Gough sent down some terrific yorkers in the death to restrict the Proteas. I hope the Indians were watching the game. They sure can learn a thing or two from their contemporaries.

The South Africans bowled and fielded brilliantly, showing they have more match-winners than any other side in the fray. Is it any wonder they are widely hailed as the hot favourites to take home the Cup.