New Zealand has received a set back in the form of Jacob Oram’s injury for their future matches. And the very next game is against world champions Australia, which the Kiwis require to win with a big margin to improve their tally in the future fixtures.
Oram is a very important member of the Kiwi side, believes the Australian captain, Ricky Ponting.
Jacob Oram, the all round performer was ruled out of Friday’s match against Australia following a knee injury. The all rounder is an all important man for the Black caps. He is a very reliable batsman late in the innings for them who can clear the fence pretty well. His majestic bowling and catching skills only add another feather to his cap. His injury at this time only means trouble for the New Zealanders because of the way he has performed in this world cup.
Oram, has scored 162 runs at an average of 40.50 in this World Cup and taken nine wickets at an avg. of 21.33. This makes his presence all the more important for his side.
Ricky Ponting, Australian captain was in all praise for Oram and agreed that his loss will be a big one for New Zealand.
“He’s a pretty important player for their side, no doubt about that. He’s lifted his game quite dramatically over the last couple of years. He’s a very reliable batsman late in the innings for them, he’s a big strong guy that can clear the fence and do it pretty well. His bowling skills and his catching skills are pretty important to them. He’ll be a big loss for them and it will be interesting to see which one of their quick bowlers they’ll replace him with,
Ponting said .
New Zealand will be going in the match with three wins in their last three fixtures against the world champions and be hoping to continue their good run against them on Friday. Though the Kiwis have never won the world cup yet, but will be hoping to turn the stakes in their favor this time. It will need a galloping effort on their part and some scintillating performances from their players to make their world cup dream come alive.
New Zealand faces Sri Lanka in their first semi-final encounter. The side will be hoping that Oram gets fit for the big game.
via:ESPNSTAR
