The tantalising aspect of this World Cup isn't the guff about gallant minnows, but the lack of a totally dominant team among the small group of favourites. In other words, it wouldn't be a surprise if the scary South African attack ripped New Zealand apart, and yet these Kiwis could make 350.
After weeks of action, tomorrow's semifinal is still a venture into the unknown. As Martin Guptill's amazing innings in Wellington emphasised, luck can play a massive part. As the disgruntled Bangladesh contingent have claimed, umpiring decisions might also swing a game.
When two teams are as even as South Africa and New Zealand in the lottery of one-day cricket, there's a huge margin for error in predictions.
The following is certain. One of the most eagerly anticipated sporting extravaganzas in New Zealand history is in store and the atmosphere at Eden Park will be amazing.
Whereas New Zealand's rugby obsession is so intense it can scare the vocal chords into near silence on such occasions, our cricket crowds know how to enjoy, and maybe even influence, a game.
Apart from that, predictions can be way off when the big guns clash, as occurred in New Zealand's group match against Australia.
That scene was perfectly set, we all thought, for an avalanche of runs proving that Eden Park was too small and modern bats too big. Instead, it turned into a paradise for bowling.
Australia, South Africa and New Zealand were always the ones to beat. No potential Cinderellas were going to the ball and the quarter-finals featured inept cricket from the losers, including naive West Indian bowling.
The only significant surprise is the extent of India's fine form, which they have found since being released from Australia's pre-tournament grip.
For now, questions prevail. Is McCullum taking his all-out-assault batting too far? Which Tim Southee will turn up? Will Morne Morkel terrorise the Kiwi batters? What kind of carnage might AB de Villiers cause?
Is a scratchy Ross Taylor helping or hindering New Zealand's cause? Will there be 700 or 300 runs scored?
As for the semifinal in Sydney on Thursday, Australia have the wood on India and will be too strong for MS Dhoni's men. Then again ...
Fever pitch
$18,150the cost of a private suite at Eden Park, which accommodates 20 people.
$950the cheapest ticket available for tomorrow's game.
300the number of World Cup tickets removed by Trade Me moderators.
23C tomorrow's high, according to MetService.
$1.92 for a New Zealand win and $1.82 for a South African victory at the TAB yesterday.
For more coverage of the Cricket World Cup from nzherald.co.nz and NZME check out #CricketFever.
