The Proteas and New Zealand face each other in a two-test series and over the years have slugged it out in some of the fiercely contested Test cricket.

The Kiwis head into the Test with confidence, following two resounding wins over Zimbabwe in Bulawayo, while the Proteas haven’t played with the red ball since the fourth and final Test against England in January.

The Black Caps are wary of the South African’s pace attack which will most likely feature Dale Steyn, Vernon Philander and the South African cricketer of the year.

The Black Caps coach, Mike Hesson, says it’s important for them to claim a series win against South Africa.

“Every series is important but we know that South Africa is a country that we’ve never won a Test series against.

“Whether it’s two Tests or five Tests, it’s something that we’ve never been able to achieve.

“For this side if we keep improving then hopefully we’re going to give ourselves a chance.”

The first Test between South Africa and New Zealand is scheduled to get underway on Friday morning at 9:30 at Kingsmead in Durban.

Morgan Piek/OFM News