The second ODI between Pakistan and South Africa promises to be an electrifying encounter as both teams clash at the iconic Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town. With Pakistan leading the series 1-0 after a nail-biting win in the first match, South Africa will be eager to bounce back and level the series. Here’s a comprehensive review of the game, including match details, team overviews, key players, head-to-head stats, and more.
Match Details
- Date: December 19, 2024
- Venue: Newlands, Cape Town
- Time: 2:00 PM Local (noon GMT)
Team Overviews
Pakistan:
Pakistan’s ODI squad has been in great form recently. After clinching the first ODI, they have shown resilience, particularly in their middle-order batting and all-rounder contributions. Captain Babar Azam leads the side with consistency, supported by in-form players like Saim Ayub and Shaheen Afridi.
South Africa:
South Africa, on their home turf, will be determined to fight back. Despite a solid start in the first ODI, their batting collapse in the middle overs cost them the game. Temba Bavuma, their captain, will look to address these weaknesses and bring out the best in his players.
Key Players to Watch
Pakistan:
- Babar Azam: Pakistan’s skipper is always a key figure, known for anchoring innings with elegance.
- Saim Ayub: Fresh off a brilliant century in the first ODI, he’s in red-hot form.
- Shaheen Afridi: Pakistan’s spearhead pacer is a constant threat with the new ball.
South Africa:
- Quinton de Kock: The wicketkeeper-batsman can turn games with his explosive batting.
- Kagiso Rabada: South Africa’s strike bowler can rattle any batting lineup with pace and precision.
- David Miller: A seasoned finisher, Miller’s contributions in the middle order are crucial.
Head-to-Head Stats
In ODIs, Pakistan and South Africa have faced each other 84 times. South Africa holds a slight edge with 51 wins to Pakistan’s 33 victories. However, Pakistan’s recent form suggests they can bridge this gap.
Probable Playing XI
Pakistan:
- Mohammad Rizwan (Captain & Wicketkeeper)
- Abdullah Shafique
- Babar Azam
- Irfan Khan
- Saim Ayub
- Tayyab Tahir
- Salman Ali Agha (All-Rounder)
- Kamran Ghulam (All-Rounder)
- Haris Rauf
- Mohammad Hasnain
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
South Africa:
- Temba Bavuma (Captain)
- Tony de Zorzi
- Aiden Markram
- Rassie van der Dussen
- David Miller
- Heinrich Klaasen (Wicketkeeper)
- Andile Phehlukwayo (All-Rounder)
- Keshav Maharaj
- Kagiso Rabada
- Marco Jansen
- Tabraiz Shamsi
Live Streaming
India:
- TV Channel: Sony Pictures Network (Specific channel to be announced)
- Live Streaming: SonyLIV app and website
Pakistan:
- TV Channel: Asports
- Live Streaming: Tamasha App, Tapmad
Pitch Report
Newlands typically offers a balanced pitch that is something for both batsmen and bowlers. Early assistance for pacers is expected, while spinners could come into play as the game progresses. Batters who spend time at the crease can capitalize in the latter stages.
Probable Scenarios
- If Pakistan bats first, their top order will need to lay a solid foundation, while middle-order stability will be key in setting a competitive target.
- South Africa’s bowling attack, led by Rabada, will aim to restrict Pakistan to a manageable score.
- Chasing under lights at Newlands can be tricky so that the toss winner might prefer batting first.
Match Predictions
Given Pakistan’s current form and momentum, they appear to have the upper hand. However, playing in South Africa’s home conditions gives the Proteas an edge in familiarity. If Pakistan’s bowlers perform as they did in the first ODI, they could seal the series. For South Africa, batting consistency will be the key to turning the tables.
