South Africa’s Proteas, favourites for the T20 World Cup after defeating India, face a potentially thrilling Super Eights match against the unpredictable West Indies in Ahmedabad, where their well-settled lineup and familiarity with the venue could give them an edge, despite Kagiso Rabada’s recent struggles. Picture: PHILL MAGAKOE / AFP
Image: PHILL MAGAKOE / AFP
Although the Proteas are probably one of the favourites for the T20 World Cup following their dismantling of co-hosts India over the weekend, South Africa’s Super Eights clash against the West Indies could present another interesting match-up.
The Windies are a temperamental force in world cricket, and on their day they can beat anyone.
Though the argument can be made that their performance against Zimbabwe in their Super Eights win on Monday was not the best gauge of their ability, the fact that the Caribbean outfit mounted a mammoth 254 in their 20 overs was a serious statement.
That score came with Shimron Hetmyer going berserk as he blasted 85 from 34 and Rovman Powell smashing 59 from 35 in Wankhede.
Considering they managed such a big total, it was interesting to note that there were no centurions.
Moving over to Ahmedabad on Thursday, it’s likely a lower-scoring venue but it’s also a ground that South Africa have played four of their five games so far at this World Cup.
That should play heavily in favour of South Africa, and it also seems the Proteas are more than happy about chasing or setting a score. It means the toss could be a big factor, should Aiden Markram win it, whether or not SA bat first.
It’s also true that South Africa have a well-settled lineup, and only through injury or a drastically different pitch which would see the Proteas change their lineup from the one that dispatched India.
It’s also true that Kagiso Rabada is due for a big performance, as he has gone wicketless in the last three games after his horror final over against Afghanistan which nearly cost South Africa the game.
For all these reasons, South Africa should come out on top, but if the Windies are on form we could be in for another heart-stopping contest.
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