They arent favourites, but they must have a decent shot at lifting the trophy. South Africa's biggest obstacle is perhaps going to be the lack of a power hitter in the middle to lower order ( the likes of an Albie Morkel or Yusuf Pathan). But this can be overcome. South Africa took the batting powerplay in the middle of the innings in the first ODI against India and it payed dividends. Thinking out of the box like that could really help them. Why not let AB de Villiers and JP Duminy take the power play in the 30th over if they are going strong? A quicky 40 - 50 runs can really give the side a boost and it will also take a bit of pressure off the likes of Johan Botha batting at 7 or 8 (not known for his power hitting). Jacques Kallis however I believe is the key. If he is fit he brings balance to the side. With Kallis batting at 3 or 4 and being the extra seamer, it then allows SA to play the likes of Imran Tahir - whom I think could be a big asset at this WC.
If we look at the Indian line up: Zaheer, Munaf and Nehra, Harbajan and three part time spinners, I think they have the right balance.
SA could do the same. Steyn, Morkel, Kallis, Botha, Tahir and Du Plessis and Duminy to back them up - not a bad line up.
Possible SA starting XI: Smith, Amla, Van Wyk, Kallis, De Villiers, Duminy, Du Plessis, Botha, Steyn, Morkel, Tahir. Surely if that side fires they should have a great chance!!!!!
No comments:
Post a Comment