Tuesday, January 18, 2011

South Africa vs India

There is a rather intriguing series going on between South Africa and India, with just a month to go before the World Cup.

Two top teams vying it out in their final series before the Big One on the Sub-continent.

So far we seen South Africa dominate the first, then choke miserably in the 2nd ODI at the Wanderers. Let's take a look firstly at the SA outfit.

In the batting, there has been a partnership that's got them out of trouble. Smith looks ordinary, Amla is taking on the attacking role. I'm not sure who is advising him, but with Kallis out through injury I feel he has to be playing the anchor role.

Ingram, Miller and newcomer Faf has to prove their worth if they want to cement their places in the side. JP and AB will do well at the World Cup.

Then the long list of bowlers. With Steyn and Morkel picking themselves, Botha and Imran Taahir I'm sure will play regularly on those wickets. Which leaves one spot in the XI open for Parnell or Tsotsobe.

When the team will be announced, I don't think Ingam will make the cut. News out suggest SA will be including an additional keeper to the squad.

And South Africa seem to be struggling to an Indian team missing regulars Tendulkar, Gambir and explosive Sehwag.

India has a good balance, with Zaheer and Harbajan lookin ever so good.

This series means nothing in the build up to the tournament, and I foresee lots of close matches and nailbiters, which seems its going to be the most closely matched World Cup in years!

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