South Africa Vs Sri Lanka, Match Preview
South Africa has had a lot to contend with off the field, following the victory against West Indies. Now they will be stepping back on the field, putting all their issues aside. The players varying stand on racism was the cause behind the uneasiness over the past week. Now, there are some solutions and the team seems ready again.
The result of a week in confusion has now led South Africa to getting their best batter back. Quinton De Kock returns to the side, after missing out due to personal reasons. Ahead of them are their favorite opponents. They have beaten Sri Lanka in the last six meeting between the two sides. Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi both have a good record against Sri Lanka, as well, and Markram’s off-breaks can add to the assistance.
Sri Lanka came into the Super 12s with a strong bowling attack. The pace attack though was taken apart by Australia. They struggled to keep the runs down, and too much was left for the spinners. The batting followed a similar template as it normally does. The top-order got runs, but a collapse left Sri Lanka with a score much less than they could have got.
South Africa Vs Sri Lanka, Team News
Theekshana played the Australia game, but needed assistance to keep himself going. His fitness is still a concern, and Sri Lanka could consider resting him as there isn’t much resting time between games.
Quinton De Kock will be back, and in his place Henrich Klaasen will have to make way.
South Africa Vs Sri Lanka, Predicted XIs
Sri Lanka (possible): 1 Pathum Nissanka, 2 Kusal Perera (wk), 3 Charith Asalanka, 4 Avishka Fernando, 5 Bhanuka Rajapaksa, 6 Dasun Shanaka (capt.), 7 Chamika Karunaratne, 8 Wanindu Hasaranga, 9 Dushmantha Chameera, 10 Maheesh Theekshana/Akila Dananjaya, 11 Lahiru Kumara
South Africa (possible): 1 Temba Bavuma (capt), 2 Quinton de Kock (wk) 3 Reeza Hendricks, 4 Aiden Markam, 5 Rassie van der Dussen, 6 David Miller, 7 Dwaine Pretorius, 8 Kagiso Rabada, 9 Keshav Maharaj, 10 Anrich Nortje, 11 Tabraiz Shamsi
South Africa Vs Sri Lanka, Players to Watch out for
Quinton De Kock
De Kock is back after a week in controversy. He didn’t want to take the knee earlier, but has said he is not racist, and will take the knee if that is how one should educate people. He has a great record against Sri Lanka, and Quinton De Kock will want a good innings to take the spotlight away from the controversy he has been in
Dasun Shanaka
Shanaka’s leadership has been brilliant this tournament. He has ensure Sri Lanka exceeds expectations, and the side is actually in a position that would surprise many. His own batting form has however not been up to the mark. He is the designated finisher of the side, but his strike-rate is a little low. He hasn’t bowled much as well, and Sri Lanka will want a stronger contribution from their captain.
South Africa Vs Sri Lanka, Pitch Report
The Sharjah ground is on the slower side. The pitches are getting slower, and spin is starting to play a role. However, the uneven dimensions make it tough on the spinners, and could help batters find the boundary with some smart Cricket. With uneven boundary sizes. Batting second will be a better option.
