In a much-anticipated clash at Kolkata’s iconic Eden Gardens on Sunday, November 05, two front-runners of the tournament, India and South Africa, will face off in an exciting showdown.
South Africa is acutely aware of the formidable Indian challenge that awaits them in Kolkata. The last time the host nation confronted an undefeated team, they not only emerged victorious but also sent New Zealand’s World Cup campaign into disarray, resulting in two consecutive losses for the Kiwis.
India’s top five batsmen have displayed remarkable form, and even Shubman Gill delivered an impressive performance at Wankhede with a solid 92 runs.
India’s pace attack has outshone their counterparts, particularly in their recent matches under the floodlights. Apart from New Zealand’s semi-successful efforts, Kuldeep Yadav continues to bewilder opposition batters.
Although India will miss the influential all-rounder Hardik Pandya for the remainder of the tournament, skipper Rohit Sharma remains hopeful that the rest of the squad will maintain their impressive performances.
On the other hand, South Africa recognizes the advantage of batting first in the tournament, consistently surpassing the 350-run mark with ease.
Beyond skipper Temba Bavuma, the Proteas’ top and middle-order batsmen have been in scintillating form throughout the World Cup.
Even if South Africa doesn’t get the opportunity to bat first, their pace attack possesses the firepower to unsettle India, bolstered by a strong spin arsenal featuring Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi.
A crucial factor to watch in this contest will be the pitch conditions in Kolkata, which have yet to produce high-scoring games.
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