Last Updated on 6 years by Charbel Coorey
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| Image credit: ICC |
Remember the hosts? They are back!
West Indies have made a good start, but the performance against Bangladesh, whilst comprehensive in the end, requires improvement. Can they make it two from two?
South Africa begun their campaign with a tricky test against Sri Lanka, and passed with flying colours. Their bowlers choked the life out of Sri Lanka’s batting effort, and more importantly, nailed the chase well. West Indies have proven they can take quick wickets, so can South Africa hold their own against the hosts?
Key to a West Indies win
The hosts will be craving an improved batting performance, led by Stafanie Taylor, who was restricted to holding the innings as best she could against Bangladesh.
The Windies will want her to be at her best, which puts onus on her teammates to provide adequate support. Natasha McLean, Hayley Mathews, Shemaine Campbelle and Deandra Dottin, along with skipper Taylor, represents a talented batting line up for the Windies. Can they hold their own against South Africa’s seamers, paving the way for a strong total?
With the ball, the Windies were irresistible against Bangladesh. Tougher opposition awaits, but the accuracy, intent and ruthlessness, particularly by the brilliant Deandra Dottin, is something they will want to repeat again. Can they dismiss the likes of Marizanne Kapp and Dane Van de Niekerk early?
Key to a South Africa win
South Africa would have seen West Indies labouring with the bat against Bangladesh, which would encourage them. Jahanara Alam picked up three wickets with her seam bowling, which paves the way for Shabnim Ismail and Marizanne Kapp to cause damage at the top. Can the South Africans push the Windies back straight away to continue improving their T20I record against them?
Also, expect South Africa’s batting to be put to a greater test today than against Sri Lanka. Marizanne Kapp and Dane Van de Niekerk will be key again, along with Lizelle Lee and Laura Wolvaardt, who will be keen to get in the runs. Can they start strongly in the powerplay to then set up the innings effectively?
Possible teams
West Indies: 1. Hayley Mathews, 2. Deandra Dottin, 3. Stafanie Taylor (c), 4. Shemaine Campbelle, 5. Natasha McLean, 6. Britney Cooper, 7. Kycia A Knight (wk), 8. Anissa Mohammed, 9. Afy Fletcher, 10. Shakera Salman, 11. Shamilia Connell
South Africa: 1. Lizelle Lee (wk), 2. Laura Wolvaardt, 3. Marizanne Kapp, 4. Dane Van de Niekerk (c), 5. Mignon du Preez, 6. Sune Luus, 7. Chloe Tryon, 8. Shabnim Ismail, 9. Masabata Klaas, 10. Tume Sekhukhune, 11. Moseline Daniels
Stats and Facts
- South Africa and West Indies played out a 2-2 draw in a five match series earlier this year.
- South Africa came back from 2-0 down to level the series.
- Deandra Dottin took 5/6 against Bangladesh
Prediction
Really difficult game to pick, with both sides capable of playing good cricket.
I am leaning towards West Indies, who perhaps have a little more in the batting department.
Thanks for reading!
