A riveting clash is scheduled at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on the 24th of October, where dominating South Africa is gearing up to challenge Bangladesh.
South Africa, fresh off a remarkable 229-run triumph over England, wim for a win to secure a spot in the top two of the points table.
On the other hand, Bangladesh, currently sitting in the sixth position with two points from four games, is looking to bounce back.
In their previous outing, South Africa’s batting brigade unleashed a breathtaking display of power and precision. Setting their sights on the illustrious target of 400 runs, they put on a spectacle.
Three half-centuries and a monumental century painted the canvas for their remarkable innings. The bowlers, fueled by a fierce determination, dismantled the England, dismissing them for a 170 runs in just 22 overs.
However, even in the absence of star all-rounder Shakib al Hasan, the Bangladeshi team managed to post a respectable 256 runs for the loss of 8 wickets, courtesy of a promising opening partnership.
Their efforts, though, fell short as they faced the Virat Kohli storm, with India securing a convincing seven-wicket win. Notably, Mahidy Hasan Miraz stood out, claiming two crucial wickets in his 10-over spell.
For South Africa, the upcoming match presents a challenging situation in team selection. Reeza Hendricks, who deputized for Bavuma in the previous game, showcased his brilliance, amassing 85 runs off 75 balls.
Quinton de Kock stands as a beacon of hope, boasting a remarkable 233 runs in four games, including two centuries in the first two fixtures.
He is the leading run-scorer for South Africa and possesses a strong track record against Bangladesh, with 428 runs in nine games at an impressive average of 53.20.
In the bowling department, Marco Jansen emerged as a dynamic all-rounder, showcasing his prowess with both bat and ball against England. He contributed an important 75 runs at a staggering strike rate of 178.57 and took two key wickets.
On the other hand, Bangladesh’s World Cup journey has hit a rough patch since their initial victory. However, the return of Shakib al Hasan is set to bolster their lineup.
Shakib, with 492 runs against South Africa in 16 innings, along with five half-centuries, is a proven match-winner.
He also leads the bowling department against South Africa, having secured 16 wickets at an economy rate of 4.66. His presence in the lineup is expected to be a game-changer.
In the face of South Africa’s formidable batting lineup, the Bangladeshi bowlers must rise to the occasion and exert early pressure to tip the scales in their favor.
SA vs BAN Probable XI
South Africa: Quinton de Kock (wk), Temba Bavuma (c), Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Gerald Coetzee.
Bangladesh: Litton Das, Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Shakib al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Mahmudullah, Nasum Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam.
Also Read: ODI World Cup 2023: Top 3 Captain Picks For SA vs BAN Fantasy Team
