Match Preview: South Africa vs Bangladesh, ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 - 23rd Match

In the lively atmosphere of Mumbai, South Africa is getting ready to play against Bangladesh in the World Cup. South Africa has been performing well lately, scoring a massive 399 runs against the defending champions. Meanwhile, Bangladesh is hoping to improve their World Cup performance. Both teams have strong players, with South Africa's top order looking particularly formidable and Bangladesh relying on stalwarts such as Mushfiqur Rahim. This match promises to be a showcase of cricketing skill and strategy.

Venue Insights

The Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai is set to host this enthralling contest. This iconic venue has seen South Africa score a mammoth 399 against England recently. Historically, Wankhede has been a ground where momentous matches have unfolded, setting the stage for cricketing classics. With its capacity crowd and electric atmosphere, teams always feel the weight of expectations here. The pitch generally aids both pace and spin, especially swing bowlers in the early part of the match. Batters, with patience and apt shot selection, can score big here, as South Africa's top order recently showcased.

Form Guide - South Africa

South Africa has been in outstanding form, winning three of their four matches. Their spectacular victories against Sri Lanka, Australia, and England, with margins of 102, 134, and 229 runs respectively, reflect their dominance. Every time they've batted first in this World Cup, they've crossed the 300-run mark. They're currently sitting pretty at No. 3 on the points table with an impressive net run rate. The only blip in their campaign so far was when they bowled first against the Netherlands, showing their preference for setting a target.

Form Guide - Bangladesh

Bangladesh's journey has been rough so far. After a promising start with a win against Afghanistan, they faced consecutive defeats against England, New Zealand, and India. Their top order has been inconsistent, with Litton Das having a mixed tournament so far. Their chances of progression look bleak, and another loss would likely end their semi-final aspirations. Shakib's potential return could provide a boost, but the absence of Taskin Ahmed due to injury is a blow.

Players to Watch

Heinrich Klaasen, fresh off a blistering 109 off 67 against England, is the man in form for South Africa. He's currently experiencing his best year in ODIs, amassing 725 runs at an average of 55.76 this year. With a strike rate of 139.43, he's one of the most destructive players in the tournament. Consistently delivering amid Bangladesh's batting struggles, Mushfiqur Rahim stands out. Some debate his placement at No. 6, suggesting a move up could stabilize the middle order, especially in Shakib's absence.

Team Composition

South Africa showcases a robust top order and a dynamic pace trio of Rabada, Ngidi, and Jansen. The inclusion of Keshav Maharaj ensures spin variation. Depending on fitness, Bavuma may replace Hendricks. On the Bangladesh side, much of their batting hope rests on Mushfiqur Rahim. While Shakib, after missing the India game due to a left quadriceps injury, seems set to return after recent training, Taskin remains sidelined with a shoulder issue. With Tanzid Hasan finding form, consistent top-order displays will be crucial for their semi-final aspirations.

Pitch and Weather Report

A hot and humid afternoon awaits, with temperatures expected to be in the mid-30s Celsius. Past matches indicate that captains might regret fielding first in such conditions, emphasizing the advantage of batting first. The pitch, typically flat at Wankhede, favours both bowlers and batters at different phases of the match. As the game progresses, spinners find opportunities for success, indicating a balanced contest between bat and ball. The weather is predicted to be mostly cloudy but without rain, with a humidity of around 51%, making it essential for players to stay hydrated and strategize their energy use effectively.

Predicted Line-ups

South Africa (Probable):
Heinrich Klaasen, Kagiso Rabada, Quinton de Kock (wk), Gerald Coetzee, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Aiden Markram, Rassie van der Dussen, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Temba Bavuma (capt)/Reeza Hendricks

Bangladesh (Probable):
Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Shoriful Islam, Tanzid Hasan, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Mahmudullah, Mustafizur Rahman, Towhid Hridoy, Litton Das, Hasan Mahmud, Shakib Al Hasan (capt), Najmul Hossain Shanto

Dream11 Prediction

Broadcast Details

South Africa vs Bangladesh will be broadcast live on Star Sports and Disney+ Hotstar in India, SuperSport in South Africa, and Gazi TV in Bangladesh. The match starts at 2 PM IST, with the toss at 1:30 PM. In South Africa, it's 10:30 AM GMT and 2:30 PM BST in Bangladesh.

Conclusion

When the final ball is bowled, spectators will have experienced a thrilling cricket match: South Africa, with their impressive net run rate, confidently taking on Bangladesh, who are eager to keep their semi-final hopes alive. This match is expected to be filled with excitement and is sure to be remembered by cricket enthusiasts around the globe.

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