South Africa faces a decisive third ODI against Afghanistan after back-to-back losses in the first two games of the series. Afghanistan’s bowling unit has posed significant challenges for the Proteas, with Fazalhaq Farooqi and Rashid Khan leading the attack.
South Africa must make the necessary adjustments and regroup to prevent a series sweep. With their top order needing to step up and the bowlers requiring discipline, the third ODI promises to be a crucial test for the Proteas. As South Africa looks to avoid a series of whitewash, a few key changes in their playing XI are expected.
South Africa’s struggling top order
South Africa’s team management will likely stick with their top-order batters, giving players like Reza Hendricks and Tony de Zorzi another chance. Meanwhile, Skipper Temba Bavuma, after showing some form in the second ODI, is expected to lead the side from the front once again. Notably, Bavuma had scored 38 runs in Proteas’ 134-run innings in the 2nd ODI.
Middle-order:
South Africa’s middle-order has been woefully out of form. Aiden Markram and Tristan Stubbs failed to make any significant contributions in both games, with Rashid Khan consistently troubling them. Kyle Verreynne, the wicketkeeper-batter, has also struggled. However, team management is unlikely to make any changes as these are their best available options.
Expected bowling changes:
South Africa’s bowling attack has also been underwhelming. In the second ODI, Afghanistan posted a mammoth 311-4, with Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s century setting the tone. The Proteas’ bowlers, including Lungi Ngidi and Nandre Burger, failed to contain the Afghan batters. One of them might get replaced by pacer Lizard Willaims.
Meanwhile, spinner Bjorn Fortuin, who has been the pick of South Africa’s bowlers with figures of 2/22 in the first ODI, is likely to retain his spot. Bowling allrounder Wiaan Mulder, though expensive, is also expected to be part of the playing XI given his all-round capabilities. Notably, the Proteas are struggling with spin options as they are feeling the absence of Keshav Maharaj.
Predicted South African playing XI for the 3rd ODI:
1. Temba Bavuma (c)
2. Reeza Hendricks
3. Tony de Zorzi
4. Aiden Markram
5. Tristan Stubbs
6. Kyle Verreynne (wk)
7. Wiaan Mulder
8. Bjorn Fortuin
9. Lungi Ngidi
10. Nandre Burger/ Lizard Willaims
11. Nqaba Peter
Disclaimer: This exclusive news is based on the author’s insights, analysis, and intuition. While reviewing this information, consider the points discussed and form your own conclusions.