South Africa Vs West Indies: Mission to bounce back


FE Sports Desk | Published: October 26, 2021 14:18:24


South Africa Vs West Indies: Mission to bounce back

South Africa will face West Indies today at 4 pm Bangladesh time at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

For both the teams, it is a match to turn things around as both of them started off losing their first game.

South Africa

The Protea batting unit, undoubtedly, has a point to prove if they are to stand any chances to qualify for the semi-finals. West Indies do not offer the quality pace like Australia. Hence, the likes of Quinton De Kock, Temba Bavuma and Van der Dussen must fire at the top. 

With a world-class pace bowling unit on a pitch that is already causing problems for batsmen, bowling might generate the least headache for Captain Bavuma. 

Again, the spin Duo - Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi - have enough versatility in them to produce magic, just like Moeen and Rashid did the other day.

Few changes are expected in South Africa XI. David Miller and Heinrich Klassen suffering from poor form could open the door for Reeza Hendricks to shine in the middle order. Dwayne Pretorius had an ordinary outing against the Aussies. So, Wiaan Mulder might finally get his chance as well.

Probable XI: Temba Bavuma (C), Quinton De Kock (wk), Rassie Van Der Dussen, Aiden Markram, Reeza Hendricks, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Tabraiz Shamsi

West Indies  

West Indies had themselves to blame for their poor batting display against England. The lack of strike rotating batsmen as well as the failure to pick the mystery spinners spelt their downfall that day. 

Apart from Chris Gayle, no batters reached double figures for them when they were packed for 55.

It will not be surprising to see West Indies struggling again if the batsmen are not sensible in their shot selections.

The West Indies bowling unit is yet to undergo a big test. However, they may take inspiration from their bowling performance against England. Akeal Hossein proved a top performer with the ball.

West Indies may opt for Roston Chase to improve their spin options. In that case, one of Lendl Simmons or Evin Lewis has to make way for him.

Probable XI: Chris Gayle, Evin Lewis, Shimron Hetmyer, Nicholas Pooran (wk), Kieran Pollard (C), Andre Russell, Roston Chase, Dwayne Bravo, Akeal Hossein, Obed McCoy, Ravi Rampaul

Share if you like