The ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023 is all set for Match 26 between Pakistan and South Africa, which will take place on Friday, October 27 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Pakistan is led by Babar Azam, while South Africa is captained by Aiden Markram.
As of now, 82 ODI matches have been played between Pakistan and South Africa, in which Pakistan has won 30 matches while South Africa has won 51 matches. The Pakistan team is currently ranked second, while the South Africa team is ranked third in the ICC ODI rankings.
Also Read: ICC ODI World Cup 2023: Pakistan vs South Africa 3 Key Player Battles to Watch Out in Today Match
Here are top five players to watch out during Pakistan vs South Africa, 26th Match ICC ODI World Cup 2023:
1) Fakhar Zaman
Fakhar Zaman’s record against South Africa in ODIs is indeed impressive. In ten innings, he has amassed a total of 544 runs, maintaining an outstanding average of 54.40 and a brisk strike rate of 101.11. What makes his performances against the Proteas even more remarkable are the two centuries and one half-century he has under his belt. With a history of dominating South African bowlers, Fakhar Zaman’s aggressive style and consistency at the crease make him a player to watch for a potentially explosive performance in this crucial encounter.
2) Quinton de Kock
Quinton de Kock, the South African wicketkeeper-batsman, has been a thorn in Pakistan’s side over the years. In 15 ODI innings against Pakistan, he has accumulated 566 runs, showcasing his ability to anchor the innings and play match-winning knocks. While his average against Pakistan stands at 37.73, it’s his strike rate of 86.41 that truly catches the eye. With two fifties and a century to his name against this opposition, de Kock’s aggressive style and ability to adapt to different match situations will be instrumental for South Africa.
3) Shadab Khan
Shadab Khan, Pakistan’s dynamic all-rounder, has demonstrated his worth against South Africa in ODIs. With both bat and ball, he has been a valuable asset. In six innings, he has scored 102 runs, showcasing his ability to contribute effectively in the middle order. Furthermore, his leg-spin has troubled South African batsmen, as he has taken eight wickets in nine innings at an average of 54 runs apiece. Shadab Khan’s ability to turn the game with both his batting and bowling skills adds a crucial dimension to Pakistan’s side.
4) Rassie van der Dussen
Rassie van der Dussen has been a consistent performer against Pakistan in ODIs. He has tallied 460 runs in seven innings, averaging a remarkable 115 with a strike rate of 86.14. His ability to anchor the innings and convert starts into substantial scores is evident from his four fifties and one century against Pakistan. As a key middle-order batsman, Rassie van der Dussen’s adaptability and composure make him a formidable opponent for Pakistan.
5) Shaheen Shah Afridi
Shaheen Shah Afridi, the young Pakistani pace sensation, has already made a mark against South Africa in ODIs. With 13 wickets in eight innings, he has shown his ability to strike at crucial junctures. His impressive average of 29.76 and a strike rate of 31.15 indicate his effectiveness with the ball. As a vital component of Pakistan’s fast-bowling arsenal, Shaheen Shah Afridi’s ability to generate pace and extract movement will be a key factor in challenging the South African batting lineup.