A high-stakes battle is set to unfold as Pakistan faces South Africa in the ICC ODI World Cup 2023. Both teams approach this encounter with contrasting recent performances. While South Africa has been a dominant force in the tournament, Pakistan has faced a series of setbacks, making this fixture a crucial one for both sides.
Match Details:
- Date: October 27, 2023
- Time: 2:00 pm IST
- Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
Match Preview:
Pakistan’s Struggles:
The Men in Green have encountered a rocky road in the competition. With three consecutive losses, including a challenging defeat against Afghanistan, Pakistan is now striving to get back on track. Their batting lineup has displayed inconsistency, struggling to score at a brisk pace. Similarly, their bowling has been less effective, struggling to break through opponents’ defenses.
South Africa’s Commanding Form:
In contrast, South Africa has emerged as a strong contender in the tournament. With a convincing 149-run victory over Bangladesh, they’ve showcased their dominance. Their batting, led by the likes of Quinton de Kock, Henrich Klassen, and Aiden Markram, has been a key strength. Their bowling, particularly the pacers, has consistently taken early wickets, making them a well-rounded team.
Playing XI
Pakistan:
The Pakistani team, captained by Babar Azam, faces challenges in both batting and bowling departments. Inconsistent performances and the inability to maintain a quick scoring rate have been their batting woes. The bowling unit is yet to find a rhythm, struggling to make breakthroughs.
Pakistan playing XI: Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Usama Mir, Shaheen Afridi, Hasan Ali, Haris Rauf.
South Africa:
South Africa has been in exceptional form, with strong batting performances and effective bowling. Players like Quinton de Kock, Henrich Klassen, and Aiden Markram have been consistent run-scorers. Their bowlers, especially the pacers, have consistently taken early wickets.
South Africa playing XI: Quinton de Kock (wk), Reeza Hendricks, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram (c), Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Gerald Coetzee, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lizaad Williams.
Squads
Pakistan:
Babar Azam (c), Shadab Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Wasim.
South Africa:
Temba Bavuma (c), Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Rassie van der Dussen, Lizaad Williams.
Considering South Africa’s commanding form and Pakistan’s recent struggles, South Africa has a higher probability of winning this fixture and securing their fifth victory in the ICC ODI World Cup 2023.
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