BENONI (South Africa), March 1: New Zealand can be forgiven if they appear to be a little distracted when they take on Canada in their final World Cup Group ‘B’ match here on Monday.

Stephen Fleming’s side know they need to win as quickly and ruthlessly as possible at Willowmoore Park but they will be just as concerned about the other match in the group being played that same day, between Sri Lanka and South Africa in Durban.

While net run-rates could still play a part, New Zealand’s best hopes of qualifying for the Super Six hinge on the 1996 champions beating hosts South Africa in a day-night clash at Kingsmead.

“All we can do is try and win our last game because we’re just passengers now,” said Fleming.

“There are some scenarios, including run-rates, that we can try and improve but, like everyone else, we’ll just have to sit back and watch events unfold.”

Meanwhile, the Kiwis were hit by two injury scares on Saturday.

Lou Vincent suffered a finger injury and will miss the crucial game while fast bowler Kyle Mills picked up a hamstring problem.—Reuters/AFP