White Ferns wary as Proteas aim to rebound from big loss

Beware a team that's hurting after a heavy defeat. That's the message from White Ferns veteran Suzie Bates, as she prepares for her 350th international match.

New Zealand face South Africa in Indore, on a pitch that has already proven to be fruitful for batting units.

And while the White Ferns - like South Africa - also enter their World Cup match-up coming off a loss, the narrative was very different for New Zealand, as they showed great character under pressure against reigning champions Australia.

"I thought the way we fought with the ball, even though Ash Gardner came out and got 100," Bates told media.

"And then we were two for none. And then the way we stayed in that game with Sophie Devine's outstanding innings, I think we were just really proud of how we fought, and we weren't able to get across the line.

"We've just got to put it all out there when it matters. And our bowlers are doing a good job. Our chances are high if we play our best game tomorrow, but we also know South Africa are an extremely good side, and they have been successful at World Cups as well.

"Obviously, South Africa are going to be hurting after their first game. But I don't think we can take too much from that game. Completely different conditions. They batted first, and obviously didn't perform the way they wanted. We've just got to be making sure that we start really strongly with the ball and put them under pressure again. I know how South Africans are, and I'm sure they're going to bounce back."

Bates' milestone game doubles as a significant occasion for in-form veteran Sophie Devine who will play in her 300th international.

"To think together we have played 650 internationals for the White Ferns is unbelievable," Bates continued.

"We want to make sure that we finish that game on a good note so we can celebrate. But we've got to push those milestones to the side and just be present tomorrow. We'll recognise that it's a special day, but our focus is on making sure we win that game and play well."

South Africa are hoping to use this game to get their tournament claims back on track.

"Playing each team, you literally have to take it one game at a time," Proteas' Sinalo Jafta told media.

"Our next opposition is New Zealand. We're not looking ahead. I think for us as a batting unit is to literally just knuckle down and just bat. Don't think too much about the outcome. Just take it one ball at a time.

"It's just to accept what has happened. Then Laura (Wolvaardt) capped it off nicely and said, 'we don't become a bad batting unit overnight'. Obviously, homework was done, and now we're just looking forward to the next one."