Rivalry like no other
In the realm of cricket fixtures, few rivalries are as storied as South Africa versus Australia. The history between these two cricketing powerhouses has witnessed the birth of some of the sport’s most enduring and iconic moments. From the legendary 438 game to the unforgettable 1999 World Cup semi-final, the stage is set for yet another epic encounter today.
In this crucial clash, South Africa, riding a wave of momentum, aims to maintain its winning form against the formidable Australian side. Fresh from an impressive ODI series victory against the Aussies and a dominant performance in their opening game against Sri Lanka, South Africa is poised to make it two wins in a row and commence their World Cup campaign in style. Meanwhile, Australia, whose batting struggled in the opening match against India, is eager to make amends when they face the Proteas today. Despite facing six defeats in their last seven outings, one thing remains certain – never underestimate the Australian team.
Australia looks to bounce back against an in-form South Africa 👊
— ICC (@ICC) October 12, 2023
Who's taking home the points in Lucknow?#AUSvSA | #CWC23 pic.twitter.com/maax4290Hr
Key changes in Australia lineup
Notably, Australia’s lineup today differs from the team South Africa faced in the ODI series just a month ago. The return of star players Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Steven Smith, and Glenn Maxwell provides Australia with renewed firepower. The inclusion of Cummins and Starc bolsters their bowling attack, and the presence of one of the world’s finest batsmen, Smith, promises to add a significant dimension to their batting lineup. Maxwell, a dynamic and dangerous white-ball player, possesses the ability to dismantle any bowling attack on his day.
South Africa looking to continue form
For South Africa, their current in-form batting order is the key to maintaining a consistent run flow. Captain Bavuma is eager to contribute significantly with the bat, while Markram, Klaasen, and Miller aim to continue their destructive performances in the middle order. The pivotal aspect for South Africa today is their bowling attack. The bowlers have occasionally struggled with accuracy when placed under pressure, and this is precisely what the Australian batting lineup will aim to exploit. The outcome of the game will largely hinge on how South Africa’s bowlers handle the pressure.
A critical decision for South Africa today revolves around the inclusion of Shamsi, who can serve as either the primary spinner or an additional spinning option. If Shamsi plays, it may come at the expense of one of the pace bowlers, with Janser likely to retain his place due to his batting capabilities. The question remains: will Shamsi make the cut, potentially displacing Coetzee, Rabada, or Ngidi?
Just some of the key battles that will decide today's Australia v South Africa World Cup clash in Lucknow 😤 #CWC23 pic.twitter.com/NTTS3YRoJ1
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) October 11, 2023
Pitch the critical factor
Furthermore, the pitch conditions are of equal significance. Recently dug up and resurfaced, this venue has hosted only four ODIs, with the highest first-inning total being a mere 253 runs. The pitch is sure to play a pivotal role in determining the course of this high-stakes encounter.
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