SA vs PAK 2024: Top 3 Players to watch out for in upcoming T20I series

South Africa vs Pakistan.
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Pakistan suffered utter humiliation in the T20 World Cup 2024, where they lost back-to-back games against the United States of America (USA) and India and were eliminated from the group stage itself. Since then, Babar Azam relinquished his position as white-ball captain and Mohammad Rizwan was appointed as the new leader of the dressing room.

Under his leadership, Pakistan suffered a 3-0 defeat to Australia Down Under but managed to seal the Zimbabwe series 2-1. It has been a topsy-turvy affair so far and up next, the Men in Green will challenge South Africa in the three-match T20I series, starting December 10 in Durban.

Playing at home, the Proteas will be confident of their chances. They struggled in the series against India but Pakistan usually struggle to cope with the intensity of T20I cricket and that is one area that the hosts would like to capitalize on. Pakistan, on the other hand, will hope to keep up with the winning moment. So, which are the players that can make a difference and help their respective teams get over the line? Let’s dissect:

3. Babar Azam

Babar Azam was given rest for the last series against Zimbabwe. Against Australia, he made only 47 runs in three matches and there’s concern if the star batter can seal his spot in the playing XI for long. During his initial years, Babar was considered to be the next big thing in Pakistan cricket but in the last couple of years, his form dropped significantly and has already been dropped from the squad in Test cricket.

The 30-year-old is under pressure to perform and get back his mojo. He was given an important break and will be fresh for taking on South Africa. He has played 126 T20I matches so far in his career, scoring 4192 runs at a strike rate of 129.22. Against the Proteas, who are naturally aggressive, Babar needs to give a rapid start and in case he fails to make a mark, the cricketer may lose his place in the playing XI.

Also Check: South Africa vs Pakistan T20I Series 2024: Schedule, Squads, Live Streaming, Broadcasters & All you need to know

2. Heinrich Klaasen

In the absence of Aiden Markram and other Test players, Heinrich Klaasen will lead South Africa in the series against Pakistan. He has been phenomenal for the team in the shortest format and can change the complexion of the game at any moment. He bats aggressively and is known as one of the hardest strikers in the world at the moment.

With many senior cricketers missing, there will be pressure on Klaasen to deliver and he often does well in those situations. However, leading up to the series, his form is slightly concerning and that is one area that the team management will want him to improve. Against a relatively weak Pakistan bowling attack, Klaasen will be optimistic.

Also Check: South Africa announce T20I squad for Pakistan home series, Heinrich Klaasen to lead

1. Mohammad Rizwan

Mohammad Rizwan didn’t feature in the T20I series against Zimbabwe and wasn’t at his best in the Australia tour. However, he is one of the most consistent performers in the team, particularly in T20 cricket and the keeper-batter will be hoping to bounce back and seal his maiden T20I series as captain.

Rizwan has played 104 T20I matches so far in his career and scored 3329 runs at a strike rate of 125.71. Even though his strike rate is concerning he can take the game deep and finish things off. In South Africa where high-scoring affairs are expected, Rizwan needs to deliver, or else his captaincy will also be questioned like it was with Babar.

Disclaimer: This latest news is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.