It is evident that this edition of the World T20 tournament has given us an 'n' number of surprises. From quality cricketing performances to underdogs showing their calibre, this tournament has been a treat for cricket fanatics.
When we talk about the upcoming game of South Africa & Bangladesh, it has been a polar opposite affair for the pair. Though Bangladesh has had a decent run during the Round 1, the Super-12 round's journey wasn't the same as they have lost all their three matches in the Super-12 segment and are now knocked out from the race.
But when we talk about the Proteas, they have had an impeccable journey in the tournament for the time being. From wholesome captaincy to some impeccable cricketing performances by the team, we might expect South Africa to thrive towards the semi-finals, as they have won 2 matches out of their 3 in total.
South Africa:
As the above pointers suggest, South Africa's current streak is 2 wins & a loss; they can seal a semi-final spot if they continue with these kind of performances. Firstly, we must appreciate the team's captain, Temba Bavuma who has been one of the foundations for the current streak of the whole team. Also, we have seen some top-notch on-form performances by Tabraiz Shamshi, David Miller, etc. So, we can expect some great performances from their end, as they are having one heck of a tournament.
Bangladesh:
As their Round 1 performance suggests, many cricket fanatics & experts thought that the team would display great fight even during the Super-12, but it was the polar opposite as they are currently placed last in Group 1 and have been disqualified from the semi-final race. To make things worse, the team has faced a blow as their main in-form allrounder Shakib Al Hasan has been ruled out of the reminder schedule due to a hamstring injury.
THE X-FACTOR: -
- Tabraiz Shamshi: Following the previous match against Sri Lanka, Tabraiz Shamshi has proved to be clinical with the ball by taking three wickets & conceding just 17 runs in his four overs spell. He's also the 2nd highest wicket-taker of this calendar year. (32 wickets)
- Aiden Markram: Aiden Markram has been the go-to batsman for the South African team. He made an impact in the first two matches of the Super-12 segment and we can again expect some valuable runs from his bat.
- Mustafizur Rahman: Being ranked as the 4th highest wicket-taker of the tournament (Round 1 + Super-12) (8 wickets), we can expect some performance from the man himself in this match.
- Mehidy Hasan: As the tigers have faced the blow of their big gun Shakib Al Hasan ruled out of the remaining half, there must be another player to somewhat fill his shoes with his calibre. Though Mehidy Hasan might not have had a good time in this edition, he might be the X-factor for this match.
Pitch Report & Toss
The pitch at Abu Dhabi is a two-paced surface hence batsmen may find it difficult to play their shots. Batsmen will have to be patient as strike rotation is going to be the most important aspect in this match. To judge the pace of the ball becomes difficult here for the batsmen as some of the deliveries hold up while some come along with the expected pace. The pacers are most likely to get more wickets with the sort of help from the surface. The dew factor wouldn't play a huge role as there will be no dew in a day game. So, expect some bowling prowess from both the teams under the hot, scorching Sun! Coming to the toss segment, the toss winner should opt to bowl.
Dream 11 Fantasy Team