CHRISTCHURCH, Feb 7: History is not on their side, but New Zealand cricket skipper Stephen Fleming is adamant that series between Black Caps and South Africa will be "a very even contest."

A Test win against Proteas on home soil still eludes the Kiwis, while their record in one-day internationals at home is not something to be proud of.

South Africa arrive in New Zealand next week after another dominating series against a struggling West Indies outfit.

Despite a surprise loss in Test series, New Zealand have just completed a resounding 4-1 ODI series win over Pakistan. Both teams can argue they are not lacking confidence.

This, according to Fleming, should make for a much more closely-contested series.

"It should be interesting to see how we measure up to them. Like us, they depend on a team effort, rather than individual stars to exert pressure," Fleming said.

Regarded by many as one of the best tactical captains in world cricket, Fleming felt South Africans relied greatly on pressure to get their opponents out.

"Their bowlers will try to put ball down in correct spots to try and encourage batting mistakes. They will also try to exert pressure with accuracy and attacking fielding. They have always been an eager, dedicated fielding side - which will always be worth wickets and runs."

One player Kiwis would like to see back of early and often is Lance Klusener, who has proven to be a painful thorn in flesh of New Zealand in past. His powerful-batting has cost them victory on more than one occasion.

"We know what he is capable of and how dangerous he is," said Fleming. "We shall be under pressure to contain him.-PPI