I watched the full replay on Fox Sports here in Australia, have no idea why they didn't show the first ODI live but they're showing the rest which is good news. I thought South Africa were in real trouble once they were 3 down, but Kemp was magnificent and with Pollock took the game away from NZ. He truly is amazing to watch when he just decides to go for it. I still remember him blasting Kabir Ali last year when England went over to SA. That was fun/
Shane Bond didn't exactly have his best game, but I'm hoping he fires in the next one dayer because I haven't seen him in such a long time. I also want Marshall to get back into form, because he's one of my favourite batsmen and his form slump is beginning to stretch out a bit too long. Kyle Mills bowled brilliantly, and I think he has a place in the NZ one day team so long as he doesn't bowl at the death. Speaking of death bowling, poor Patel. I think he can do the job for NZ in the future though, but on smaller grounds he may get smacked around too. Tough catch to drop, but I have no doubt it likely cost them the match.
I think Smith made the wrong decision subbing off Ntini for Boje after only 4 overs. I know what he was trying to do with the slow pitch and all, but I just don't think it worked at all. The pitch may not have suited Ntini's bowling, but he picked up a wicket and it just looks odd when one of the SA fast bowlers who was only a month ago bowling for the World XI gets subbed off.
I think NZ need to get over Harris and Cairns and those calling for their return should think again. This NZ outfit is reasonably good, and continously going back to those guys isn't going to do anything for the future of NZ cricket.
Also to SA fans, how far is AB de Villiers from playing ODIs again? I know he hasn't lit the world on fire in the limited overs game in the 9 matches he's played and right now there probably isn't a slot available for him, but I'd like to see him back in there soon enough.
I look forward to a close series here as a neutral. I just want it to go down to the 5th game, so with SA 1-0 up, I hope NZ can win the 2nd ODI and level the scores.