The 8th match of the ICC Cricket World Cup will see India and South Africa lock horns in a high-profile affair on June 5. The high-octane match will be played at The Rose Bowl in Southampton, England. The Proteas are coming off two big losses in the showpiece event, whereas the Men in Blue will be playing their first match of the CWC 2019. South Africa cannot afford another loss, and India will be eyeing to begin the tournament on a winning note. As two titans of world cricket set to collide at the grandest stage on Wednesday, we bring a list of mini-battles that’ll make the match much more exciting for the fans to watch. India vs South Africa, ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 Match Preview: IND Aim to Further Proteas' Misery in CWC.
1. Mohammed Shami vs Hashim Amla
The duo has had a healthy competition in the past as well. It will be interesting to see how Hashim Amla counters Mohammed Shami’s pace and bounce in the innings initially, given how the conditions will be at the venue. Also, how Shami finds way to tackle Amla in the powerplay and later on in the innings will be a sight to watch for the fans. South Africa vs India Cricket Score 8th ODI Match.
2. Jasprit Bumrah vs Quinton de Kock
Both Jasprit Bumrah and Quinton de Kock were teammates (at Mumbai Indians) only a few weeks back. They’d know each other’s strengths and weaknesses inside-out, and that’s what makes this battle more exciting. On one hand, Bumrah would be aiming to rattle Proteas’ top order, whereas, on the other hand, the South African wicket-keeper batsman would be looking forward to thwart-off the danger posed by the Indian bowling lineup. ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 – Points Table.
3. Kagiso Rabada vs Rohit Sharma
The mini-rivalry of sorts, between the two – Kagiso Rabada and Rohit Sharma – goes a long way back, where the former has had an upper hand against the latter. Rabada is in some excellent form this season, and would be eyeing to continue against India, especially Rohit Sharma at the top, for they know what mayhem he can create when he is set on the crease for a longer period. It’ll be delighting to see how Rohit handles Rabada’s pace and precision.
The two teams are on two different ends of the lake. South Africa badly needs a win, and India will be only playing their first World Cup match this edition. The Proteas suffered a great blow in the form of Dale Steyn being ruled out of the World Cup. As for India, Kohli’s thumb being hurt was a big scare too. It will be interesting to see the sides overcome their huddles and fight for the two points.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 04, 2019 10:52 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).