The ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023 will see its fourth match of the tournament between South Africa and Sri Lanka. On October 7, South Africa and Sri Lanka will face each other at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi. The match will start at 2:00 PM IST.
On one hand, a top all-rounder like Temba Bavuma will take command of the South Africa team in the World Cup, while on the other hand, the responsibility of the Sri Lanka team will be on the shoulders of Dasun Shanaka, famous for his calm and composed nature.
As of now, 80 ODI matches have been played between South Africa and Sri Lanka, in which South Africa has won 45 matches while Sri Lanka has won 33 matches. The South Africa team is currently ranked fourth, while the Sri Lanka team is ranked seventh in the ICC ODI rankings.
Also Read: ICC ODI World Cup 2023: South Africa vs Sri Lanka 3 Key Player Battles to Watch Out in Today Match
Here are top five players to watch out during South Africa vs Sri Lanka, 4th Match ICC ODI World Cup 2023:
1) Heinrich Klaasen
Heinrich Klaasen, the explosive batter, has been in exceptional form, putting immense pressure on bowlers, especially spinners. Klaasen’s highest One-day International score came during the 4th ODI against Australia at Centurion. His role is crucial in providing impetus to South Africa’s innings, assisting in posting competitive totals or successful chases. While his One-day International record against Sri Lanka is modest, Klaasen seeks to enhance it and contribute to South Africa’s triumph.
2) Dunith Wellage
The 20-year-old spinner, Dunith Wellage, plays a dual role with bat and ball. He impressed in the Asia Cup 2023, claiming 5 wickets for 40 runs against India. In his maiden World Cup appearance, Wellage aims to excel in the middle overs, sustaining momentum for Sri Lanka by taking crucial wickets. As a lower-order batter, Wellage intends to leave an impact and ensure Sri Lanka secures victories, whether setting targets or chasing them.
3) Kagiso Rabada
South African pacer Kagiso Rabada shoulders the added responsibility in the absence of Anrich Nortje in the bowling department. With 13 wickets from 4 innings at an economy of 2 runs per over in One-day Internationals against Sri Lanka, Rabada’s role is pivotal. He aims to provide early breakthroughs and restrict Sri Lanka, utilizing his pace and bounce to challenge opposition batters. Rabada is eager to deliver a superb bowling performance against Sri Lanka.
4) Pathum Nissanka
Sri Lanka’s right-handed opener, Pathum Nissanka, is set to make a significant impact. Although he hasn’t faced South Africa in One-day Internationals yet, his ability to exert pressure on bowlers with stylish shots is evident. Nissanka aims to maintain momentum in the first 10 overs, putting pressure on the South African bowlers. His batting prowess contributes to Sri Lanka’s quest for quick runs, vital when setting or chasing targets.
5) Quinton de Kock
Quinton de Kock, the wicketkeeper-batter, plays a pivotal role for South Africa by providing an attacking start within the first 10 overs. In 24 One-day Internationals against Sri Lanka, he boasts an impressive best score of 128 at an average of 46.79. De Kock’s mission is to apply pressure on the opposition’s bowlers, particularly pacers, and set the stage for victory, whether batting first or chasing, especially on favorable batting pitches.