ICC World Cup 2023, SA vs AFG | 5 Player Battles to Watch Out for

image-lor5ehh0South Africa and Afghanistan will lock horns in Ahmedabad. (AP)

In the imminent showdown between South Africa and Afghanistan, the Proteas are determined to bounce back from a recent setback against India. Their opponent, Afghanistan, fueled by the ambition to secure a semi-final spot, aims to recover from a demoralizing defeat to Australia. Set to be played on November 10 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, this clash promises a enthralling spectacle between two teams fervently pursuing victory.

Under the leadership of Temba Bavuma, South Africa steps into the match with a batting lineup that has showcased brilliance throughout the World Cup. Quinton de Kock's sublime form at the top, combined with a formidable middle-order featuring Dussen, Klaasen, and Miller, positions the Proteas as a potent force capable of posting substantial totals. However, their vulnerability in run chases, highlighted by the recent instance of being bowled out for 83 while chasing 327 against India, raises valid concerns for the Proteas.

On the other hand, Afghanistan aims to leverage recent successes and exploit potential weaknesses in the South African lineup. Despite a setback against Australia, Afghanistan's batting unit, including consistent contributors Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi, and Azmatullah Omarzai, radiates maturity and promise. The century from opener Ibrahim Zadran against Australia serves as a confidence boost for the entire batting ensemble.

Given the good form exhibited by both teams, the forthcoming clash is anticipated to be enthralling, capturing the attention of spectators and experts alike. The individual matchups within this contest contribute an extra layer of excitement, adding a strategic dimension to the game.

Here's the 5 player battles for this upcoming contest.

Rahmanullah Gurbaz vs Marco Jansen

image-lor5g5uhRahmanullah Gurbaz. (PTI)

Jansen, a proven wicket-taker for the Proteas, particularly excels in the powerplay. On the other side, Gurbaz, a standout batter for Afghanistan, consistently provides solid starts but in the past few game he has faced the challenge of converting those starts into big innings. Jansen's primary focus will be on preventing Gurbaz from transforming a promising start into a big score.

Naveen-ul-Haq vs Quinton de Kock

image-lor5h8oqQuinton de Kock. (AP)

In the previous game, Naveen showcased brilliance with his swing and troubling deliveries, particularly against the left-handed batters. Now tasked with facing South Africa's run machine, Quinton de Kock, Naveen will aim to unsettle the aggressive opener, replicating the impact he had in the last game against Australia. The outcome of this battle has the potential to set the tone for the entire game.

Hashmatullah Shahidi vs Kagiso Rabada

image-lor5jlfvKagiso Rabada. (Reuters)

Despite Rabada not taking as many wickets as desired, his bowling brilliance throughout the World Cup remains undeniable. Shahidi, who has been Afghanistan's anchor in the World Cup, must exercise extra caution against Rabada's ability to pick crucial wickets. This duel between bat and ball introduces an intriguing dimension to the overall contest.

Rashid Khan vs Aiden Markram

image-lor5kgmwRashid Khan. (AP)

Rashid Khan, Afghanistan's trump card with the ball, is renowned for his wicket-taking ability in crucial game phases. To secure victory against South Africa, Rashid targets the dismissal of Aiden Markram, the linchpin of the Proteas' batting lineup. Markram's knack for scoring crucial runs makes him a prime target for Rashid in this middle-overs battle.

Rahmat Shah vs Keshav Maharaj

image-lor5m2jxRahmat Shah. (AP)

Maharaj looked threatening against an in-form Indian batting line-up in the last game, aims to maintain control and accuracy. Rahmat Shah, known for resilience and proficiency against spin, poses a formidable challenge. Maharaj's skills will be put to the test as he endeavors to outfox Afghanistan's number three batter.