T20 World Cup 2021: South Africa’s probable playing XI
South Africa have already announced their squad for the T20 World Cup 2021 and look like a formidable side for the big event in the UAE. They have been in some good form lately, after beating West Indies, Ireland and Sri Lanka, all away from home. Let us take a look at their potential starting XI for their opening game in the T20 World Cup 2021, which they will against Australia in Abu Dhabi on October 23:
Openers – Temba Bavuma and Quinton de Kock
Reeza Hendricks did a fair job as an opener while Temba Bavuma was out with an injury in the recent T20I series in Sri Lanka. However, skipper Bavuma is likely to be back in the opening match of South Africa at the World Cup. Quinton de Kock has scored more than 450 runs in 10 innings this year in T20Is and his form would be a key aspect in Proteas’ plans.
Middle order – Aiden Markram, Rassie van der Dussen, David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen
Aiden Markram
The middle-order houses a few known names. Aiden Markram has emerged as a quality batter and if his recent exploits with the ball in Sri Lanka suggests that he can be a handy sixth bowling option on slow UAE pitches. Rassie van der Dussen is someone who is probably one of the first names which is written in any format for Proteas.
David Miller was on the benches during the Sri Lankan tour but should be back at no. 5, given his experience and ability to strike the ball. Klaasen should also find a place in this side to add to their batting depth and help them with quick runs in the death overs.
All-rounder – Dwaine Pretorius
South Africa have picked only Dwaine Pretorius and Wiaan Mulder as options for the all-rounder’s slot. Given how Proteas have operated in recent times, Mulder would fancy a place but Pretorius might edge past him because of his batting abilities and experience.
Bowlers – Anrich Nortje, Keshav Maharaj, Tabraiz Shamsi, Kagiso Rabada
This is where South Africa have pulled a few unexpected strings. Keshav Maharaj had been in discussions to come into the T20I side, but no one would have expected the way in which he did. His performance in Sri Lanka should make him get paired with the World’s No.1 T20I bowler, Tabraiz Shamsi.
Anrich Nortje and Kagiso Rabada had been the driving force for Delhi Capitals during their run till the IPL 2020 final and the duo should be back together for this tournament. The conditions will suit them well. Bjorn Fortuin is one guy who misses out but could be brought anytime in the tournament, but maybe not quite at the start.
