World Cup 2015: Steyn-Kohli contest could determine result, says Jennings

MUMBAI: Thanks to the passion that accompanies every Indo-Pak clash, for many Indian fans the World Cup may have already been won after the convincing 76-run victory over the arch-rivals at the Adelaide Oval on Sunday. And given the current state of affairs, it's quite unlikely that the two teams will meet again in this tournament.
But, MS Dhoni & Co.are well aware that the win over Pakistan would have only helped in setting the tem po for the long-drawn competition.They take on South Africa in their second Pool B game at the Mel bourne Cricket Ground on Sunday, and needless to say, the Proteas will be come hard on India as this clash will go a long way in determining which side tops the pool.
India have never beaten South Africa in the World Cup, losing on three occasions ­ at Adelaide 1992, at Hove 1999 and at Nagpur in 2011. And unlike Pakistan, who wilted under pressure in the muggy Adelaide evening, the Proteas will be extremely tough to beat at the MCG. Ray Jennings, the former South Africa and Royal Challengers Bangalore coach, says, "Both teams have got off to a good start, and trust me, both would hate to lose on Sunday.After all, the result could determine the table toppers in Pool B," Jennings told TOI on Tuesday. "That in turn, would help the winning side get a relatively easier quarterfinal matchup," he added.
South Africa were given a pretty tough time by Zimbabwe in their tournament opener, but Jennings said one should not read too much into it. "Teams do take time to settle in and ward off initial nerves. Plus, teams like Zimbabwe give whatever they have against the best side as they don't have much to lose. That's why the result was closer than expected."
In some quarters, the forthcoming clash is also being billed as Virat Kohli-vs-AB de Villiers face-off, as both batsmen are at the top of their powers at the moment. However, Jennings differed for the fact that it simply can't be a batsman-vs-batsman match-up. "From my reading, it would be more apt to say it's going to be Dale Steyn vs Virat Kohli," in the tournament from Johannesburg.
So, who is the favourite? "Now, I am not going to stick my neck out on that one, as it could backfire. But, I am con fident the Steyn-Kohli contest would be fascinating and fans will have a great time watching it," he said.