The time is ticking and the extravaganza is heading for the twilight - penultimate is the occasions to which the entire cricket fraternity is rising.

The Sri Lankan Lions’ having come into the carnivals as dismal favorites have through it developed into the spirit that keeps the tide rollicking for the Asian contention.

New Zealanders came with confidence derived from the 3-0 thrashing of the World Champions back home, and had until the off-day against the Trans-Tasman rivals in the super eights carried the blustering form.

Respect is a bond between the two sides - but how far will it lead in through? - Knowledge procreates disdain, which further competition - and that is what drives cricket, to which Sabina Park plays host tonight - when Sri Lanka takes on New Zealand in the first semifinal of the World Cup 2007.

A mammoth occasion: After four World Cup semifinal defeats, here is an occasion for the Kiwis to finally think, it’s worthy a place in the finals. Self-confidence is the key for the Black Caps that can be the motivator for Stephen Fleming’s men to carve something that neither of their predecessors have ever managed.

Have been here and have done it: The slot is nothing novel for the Lions - they have been here, have played bigger and tougher games and have been past, to taste glory. Though the perception has transformed - nothing stands likely - and cricket holds evident.

Head-to-Head: Both are to the fullest versed with the others repertoires, and know what to expect - have played the other at 14 instances since the preceding quadrennial extravaganza. Black Caps guide the stats with seven to six triumphs in their favor - though the Lankan’s will take heart from the most recent of it in the super eights that they managed to get going their way.

Strength and Weaknesses: The Kiwis have enormous depth in the batting, while the Lions’ are a cluster of bowling phenomenons. Fleming the best at helm on field, while Jayawardene the hardcore passionate leader’s store.

Both sides struggle with the top order - with middle-order rolling the scene. Injury scares are over for Lanka - Lasith Malinga’s back - Black Caps perhaps the lesser gainers though, have Shane Bond and Jacob Oram recover, but sure to miss Lou Vincent in the top order.

Chaminda Vaas, Malinga and Muttiah Muralitharan are the Lions - while Bond, Oram and Daniel Vittori the Kiwis to watch for. Sanath Jayasurya and skipper Fleming for the opening score while Jayawardene and Silva - Scott Styris and Oram in the middle-order.

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