Last Updated on 6 years by Charbel Coorey
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| Image credit: Sportskeeda |
An ODI series that hasn’t really told us much, truth be told.
The Proteas approached this series as one that could tell them which players, especially batsmen, could force their way into the World Cup squad. Their opponents, Zimbabwe, just want some joy in what has been a nightmare 2018.
For various reasons, both have not come to fruition yet, with one final chance for either team to feel truly satisfied in this ODI series.
There is quite a bit to be agitated about from a South African perspective. The strips have resembled merry-go-rounds rather than true ODI tracks, and in a series where players are out to prove themselves, the conditions here are galaxies away from what is expected in England next year. South Africa’s total of 198 in Bloemfontein, thanks mainly to Dale Steyn, Aiden Markram and Andile Phehlukwayo, felt like 330+, and while the Proteas are expected to be too good again, they will like to see the batsmen have a good day out. The return of Faf du Plessis from injury is a boost, but can the others have a big day?
Zimbabwe were right in the game in the 2nd ODI, so much so that fans put obscure bets in their favour (see below for a chuckle). After conceding 198, though, their batsmen, who have struggled on friendlier tracks at home, were on a hiding to nothing. It is harsh to expect to expect big things from Zimbabwe against such a quality attack in tough conditions, but they have things to be optimistic about. They have landed the ball in good areas consistently, and if they can do the same today, them troubling South Africa again will be of no surprise.
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Unlucky!
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Key to a South Africa win
The Proteas have been merciless with the ball in this series, taking all 20 Zimbabwe wickets at less than 10 a piece. Dale Steyn’s return to the ODI side in Bloemfontein was a successful one, with all of Lungi Ngidi, Andile Phehlukwayo and Imran Tahir asking serious questions the Zimbabwe batsmen are unable to answer.
On what is expected to be a better batting pitch in Paarl, can the South African bowlers still blow Zimbabwe away?
Also, and perhaps more importantly, what can South Africa’s batsmen offer? Yes, conditions have been difficult, but some of the strokeplay has left a little to be desired, so it will be interesting to see how things transpire today. Time is running out for the likes of Dean Elgar, Reeza Hendricks and Khaya Zondo, especially given Faf du Plessis returns from injury for this clash.
Key to a Zimbabwe win
With South Africa’s attack a well-oiled machine, it is a mystery as to how Zimbabwe’s batting will last 50 overs, even on a good batting track. But, to have a chance of gaining pride, the onus is on the batting to string together as many partnerships as they can to give their bowlers a shot.
Much rests on Hamilton Mazakadza and Brendan Taylor, two very experienced players in the top four, and so too Sean Williams and Craig Ervine, who have good performances in them. For the men in red, it starts with their experienced players leading the way, rotating the strike, and giving the lower order a chance to play with some freedom. On a pitch that could aid spin, dealing with South Africa’s spinners will also be key, but they wouldn’t want to be two or three down for not many when spin enters.
More encouraging, though, has been the performances of their bowlers. Tendai Chatara has bowled with good pace and accuracy, and was backed up by Kyle Jarvis, who bowled his best spell of the series in Bloemfontein. Donald Tiripano, Brandon Mavuta and Sean Williams all went for under five an over, and were in the wickets. Can they trouble South Africa’s batsmen again?
Possible XIs
Tough to predict South Africa’s XI, with a few possibilities.One of Khaya Zondo, Christiaan Jonker or Reeza Hendricks could miss out for the returning Faf Du Plessis. Also, Tabraiz Shamsi could get a run either with or instead of Imran Tahir, but conditions will dictate this.
South Africa possible XI: 1. Dean Elgar, 2. Aiden Markram, 3. Reeza Hendricks/Khaya Zondo, 4. Faf Du Plessis (c), 5. JP Duminy, 6. Heinrich Klaasen (wk), 7. Christiaan Jonker, 8. Andile Phehlukwayo, 9. Dale Steyn, 10. Kagiso Rabada/Lungi Ngidi, 11. Imran Tahir/Tabraiz Shamsi
If spin is considered to be a factor, Wellington Mazakadza could be brought in. Also, an opportunity could be given to Ryan Murray, who hit 46 and 77 in the Africa T20 last month.
Zimbabwe possible XI: 1. Hamilton Mazakadza (c), 2. Solomon Mire, 3. Craig Ervine, 4. Brendan Taylor (wk), 5. Sean Williams, 6. Ryan Murray, 7. Elton Chigumbura, 8. Donald Tiripano/Wellington Mazakadza, 9. Brandon Mavuta, 10. Kyle Jarvis, 11. Tendai Chatara
Dream11
There are different possibilities to team selection, so will keep an eye open on news in the lead up to the game. Below is my team, with a few pointers!
- There is a good chance Tabraiz Shamsi will get a run today, given it is a dead rubber, and so too Kagiso Rabada after being rested the other day.
- Hamilton Mazakadza has promised with two starts, and Brendan Taylor just has to fire! Hoping today is the day.
- Dean Elgar could benefit from a better batting track, and so too Aiden Markram who has made starts. Faf du Plessis slots back into my team.
Stats and Facts
- South Africa have won their last 29 ODIs against Zimbabwe.
- In the last game at Boland Park, Paarl, South Africa smashed 353/6 against Bangladesh, with AB de Villiers hitting 176.
- There have been big scores at this ground, but some shockers too. Sri Lanka were knocked over for 43 chasing 302 in 2012, and who could forget Canada’s 36 all out vs Sri Lanka at the 2003 World Cup?
- Imran Tahir’s strike rate this series is 8.2.
Prediction
South Africa to make it 3-0. Can’t see any other result, especially given South Africa’s firing attack.
Thanks for reading!
P.S., I have partnered with the absolutely amazing team at
onlinecricstore.com, the
most comprehensive Online Cricket Store you’ll see. Through me, you can enjoy discounts on 700+ products
through a single code – CHARBEL5. I recommend you check it out today!
