With the ODI World Cup on the horizon, the upcoming three-match T20I series between South Africa and Australia do not hold a great deal of significance. However, the two teams have decided to test some of their fringe players, who might come in handy at the T20 World Cup in 2024. The first T20I is set to be played at Kingsmead, Durban on Wednesday, August 30.
Exciting, uncapped hard-hitters like Dewald Brevis and Donavon Ferreira have been called up to the South African side and cricket enthusiasts will be waiting to see if they can replicate the glorious performances they have displayed in franchise leagues around the world. Aiden Markram will lead the side that has some experienced players like Rassie van der Dussen, Temba Bavuma, Tabraiz Shamsi, and a fit-again, Keshav Maharaj.
Australia, on the other hand, have been dealt with some injury concerns, with Glenn Maxwell being the latest player ruled out of the series. Mitchell Marsh is set to lead the side and they announced their playing XI a day prior to the first T20I. The former world champions are set to give debut caps to the exciting troika of Matthew Short, Spencer Johnson, and Aaron Hardie. Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa, and Travis Head will add balance to the new-look side.
Pitch and conditions
The Durban pitch has an average first innings score of only 146 in T20Is. However, the highest first innings score is 218. Batters generally need to give themselves some time in the middle before they can express themselves at Kingsmead. Ten matches have been won by teams batting first while seven have been won by chasing teams. Given the recent trend in T20Is, the team that wins the toss could opt to bowl first to get an idea of the pitch and the target in sight for a calculated run chase.
Probable Playing XI For SA vs AUS
South Africa
The Proteas have a good mix of youth and experience in their teams. Aiden Markram has been phenomenal in the shortest format of the game and he would hope to lead from the front. The hosts would be looking to give opportunities to some of their exciting talents to allow them to prove their mettle in the series.
Probable Playing XI: Temba Bavuma, Reeza Hendricks, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram (C), Dewald Brevis, Tristan Stubbs (wk), Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Sisanda Magala, Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi
Australia
The Aussies will be under new captain Mitchell Marsh, who will have to lead his team from the front. All-rounder Marcus Stoinis will also have to share his experience with the younger lot. It will be exciting to see how the debutants perform in the game.
Playing XI:
Matt Short, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh (C), Josh Inglis (wk), Marcus Stoinis, Tim David, Aaron Hardie, Sean Abbott, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Spencer Johnson
SA vs AUS Head-to-head:
Played – 22, South Africa – 8, Australia – 14
SA vs AUS Broadcast and Live Streaming Details:
Match Timings: 9:30 PM IST
Live Broadcast: Star Sports
Live Streaming: Disney+ Hotstar
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