PAK vs SA Predicted Playing XI

In the ICC World Cup 2023, Pakistan finds itself navigating a tumultuous path. With three successive losses, including a challenging defeat at the hands of Afghanistan, the Men in Green are desperately seeking a route to redemption. Their campaign has been marred by inconsistency, particularly in their batting department, which has struggled to find its rhythm and post competitive scores. Similarly, their once-formidable bowling attack has faltered, finding it tough to dismantle the defenses of their opponents.

In stark contrast, South Africa has emerged as one of the powerhouses of the tournament. With a resounding 149-run victory over Bangladesh, they’ve underlined their dominance and are now firmly seated near the top of the points table. The Proteas boast a well-balanced side, with their batting led by the destructive Quinton de Kock, the composed Henrich Klassen, and the explosive Aiden Markram. Their bowlers, especially the pacers, have been relentless in taking early wickets, providing crucial breakthroughs to their team. 

For the ICC World Cup 2023, the highly anticipated encounter between Pakistan and South Africa promises to be a thrilling battle at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. As both teams strive to secure their positions in the tournament, the composition of their respective Playing XIs is critical.

Pakistan’s Predicted Playing XI:

Pakistan, currently standing 5th on the points table, faces a crucial game and might field this lineup. They will rely on their captain, Babar Azam, for a strong start, and Mohammad Rizwan to anchor the innings. The bowling attack, led by Shaheen Afridi and Hasan Ali, will look to dismantle the South African batting order. The fast bowling has looked lack luster and will look to step up in the crucial times. Shadab and Usman Mir will have to make the inroads for Pakistan, if not it would be a very long day in the park for Pakistan. 

1. Abdullah Shafique

2. Imam-ul-Haq

3. Babar Azam (c)

4. Mohammad Rizwan (wk)

5. Saud Shakeel

6. Shadab Khan

7. Usama Mir

8. Shaheen Afridi

9. Hasan Ali

10. Haris Rauf

11. Iftikhar Ahmed

South Africa’s Predicted Playing XI:

South Africa, having secured the 2nd spot on the points table, comes into this match with great confidence. Aiden Markram will lead the side, with strong batting support from Quinton de Kock and the experienced David Miller. Quinton De Kock will look to continue his dream run in the tournament after his 3 centuries in the tournament. Klassen has been the standout player in this World Cup donning the number 5 role with perfection. 

Their bowling department, led by Kagiso Rabada and Keshav Maharaj, poses a potent threat to the Pakistani lineup. Along with them, youngster Coetzee has risen to the occasion for the Proteas. Loking at the injury of Ngidi, he will be likely take time to recover. Hence, Lizaad Williams will play. 

1. Quinton de Kock (wk)

2. Aiden Markram (c)

3. Heinrich Klaasen

4. Rassie van der Dussen

5. David Miller

6. Marco Jansen

7. Keshav Maharaj

8. Kagiso Rabada

9. Lizaad Williams

10. Gerald Coetzee

11. Reeza Hendricks

As the two teams prepare to face off in what promises to be an enthralling encounter, Pakistan will be seeking to revive their campaign and silence the critics. South Africa, on the other hand, will aim to maintain their winning momentum and cement their position as a formidable contender in the World Cup. With so much at stake, cricket fans can expect an action-packed match as these two teams battle it out on the grand stage of the ICC World Cup 2023.

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