The 26th match of the ICC ODI World Cup will be come comeback match for Pakistan. South Africa on the other hand is in full form and holding 2nd place in the points table will give a hell of a tough fight to Pakistan. Both teams have quality players to turn the tide at any time in their team’s favor. Here, we’ll analyze key statistics and profiles of these key players from both sides who can make a significant impact.
Before diving into the players to watch, let’s take a quick look at their recent head-to-head encounters. The last five matches Pakistan vs South Africa paint an intriguing picture of competitiveness:
On April 7, 2021, Pakistan secured a 28-run win against their opponent. Just a few days earlier, on April 4, 2021, South Africa managed to clinch a victory with a 17-run margin. On April 2, 2021, Pakistan again demonstrated its prowess, winning by three wickets with no balls remaining.
Going back to June 23, 2019, Pakistan dominated the game with a 49-run win. However, it’s worth noting that South Africa was not without their moments of triumph, as on January 30, 2019, they won by seven wickets with a comfortable 60 balls remaining.
As these statistics reveal, the contest between Pakistan and South Africa is as close as it gets. Now, let’s delve into some key players who could make a significant impact on the upcoming match.
Mohammad Rizwan (Photo Source: Getty Images )
The wicketkeeper-batsman has been a consistent performer for Pakistan. In his last five matches, he has scored 302 runs at an average of 75.50, with a spectacular high score of 131*. His ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed will be vital for Pakistan.
Abdullah Shafique (Photo Source: Getty Images )
Another promising talent, Shafique has scored 255 runs in just four matches, boasting an average of 63.75. His strike rate of 96.95 indicates his ability to maintain a brisk scoring rate while maintaining composure at the crease.
Shaheen Shah Afridi (Photo Source: Getty Images )
Pakistan’s pace spearhead, Shaheen Shah Afridi, is a potent weapon in the bowling department. He has claimed ten wickets in his last five matches, with a best bowling figure of 5/54 against Australia. His knack for early breakthroughs and a fiery spell makes him a key asset.
Quinton de Kock (Photo Source: Getty Images )
The South African captain has been in sensational form, accumulating 407 runs in his last five matches with a scorching high score of 174 against Bangladesh. His average of 81.40 and strike rate of 114.97 make him a formidable force in the batting department.
Heinrich Klaasen (Photo Source: Getty Images )
Klaasen has been another standout performer for South Africa, amassing 288 runs in his last five matches with a high score of 109 against England. His ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed provides South Africa with vital stability in the middle order.
Marco Jansen (Photo Source: Getty Images )
A budding star in the South African bowling attack, Jansen has claimed ten wickets in his last five matches. With an average of 24.70 and an impressive economy rate of 6.50, he has the potential to restrict the opposition and take crucial wickets.
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