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Both teams head into this crucial Group B clash after securing impressive wins in their opening fixtures. Australia overcame England in a high-scoring thriller, successfully chasing 351 with ease, while South Africa put in a dominant performance against Afghanistan, winning by a massive 107 runs.
The history between these two cricketing giants is filled with intense battles, from the iconic 1999 World Cup semi-final to heated moments in Test cricket. While Australia has been a dominant force in world cricket, South Africa has had the upper hand in recent ODI meetings, winning 15 of the last 19 encounters.
With both sides in good form, expect another high-voltage clash filled with drama, skill, and aggressive gameplay.
Match Details
| Match | Australia vs South Africa |
|---|---|
| Date | Tuesday, 4th February 2025 |
| Time | 2:00 PM Local Time |
| Venue | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Pakistan |
| Format | ODI |
Teams Preview
Australia Preview
Despite conceding 351 runs in their first match, Australia showed resilience and firepower to chase down the total with 15 balls to spare. Their top-order batting clicked perfectly, with Josh Inglis producing a magnificent century, while Alex Carey and Matthew Short also played key roles in the victory.
Bowling remains a concern for the side, especially after leaking so many runs against England. However, Ben Dwarshuis was impressive in the powerplay, dismissing key batters early on. Adam Zampa provided a crucial breakthrough with his spin, while Nathan Ellis used his variations effectively in the latter stages.
Facing South Africa’s strong batting lineup will be a big challenge, and Australia will need their bowlers to step up if they want to take control of the game.
Australia Predicted Playing XI:
Matthew Short, Travis Head, Steven Smith (c), Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis (wk), Alex Carey, Glenn Maxwell, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Spencer Johnson
South Africa Preview
South Africa produced a clinical all-round performance in their opening game, posting a big total before their bowlers decimated Afghanistan’s batting order. Ryan Rickelton, brought in for the injured Heinrich Klaasen, grabbed the opportunity with both hands, smashing a century at the top. With support from Bavuma, van der Dussen, and Markram, the batting unit looked in complete control.
Their bowling attack looked sharper, with Kagiso Rabada leading from the front with three wickets. Lungi Ngidi and Wiaan Mulder also chipped in with crucial breakthroughs.
A major selection decision awaits the team—whether to bring Klaasen back or stick with Rickelton, who delivered a match-winning performance. Either way, South Africa’s squad looks well-balanced and ready for another dominant display.
South Africa Predicted Playing XI:
Ryan Rickelton (wk), Tony de Zorzi, Temba Bavuma (c), Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi
Fantasy Team XI
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Wicketkeeper | Josh Inglis |
| Batters | Steven Smith, Rassie van der Dussen, Temba Bavuma, Travis Head |
| All-rounders | Glenn Maxwell, Aiden Markram, Marco Jansen |
| Bowlers | Kagiso Rabada, Adam Zampa, Lungi Ngidi |
Pitch Report
Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium generally provides a good balance between bat and ball.
- Batting Conditions: The surface will be good for batting, and teams will look to post totals around 300+.
- Pace Bowling: There will be assistance for fast bowlers, especially under overcast skies.
- Spin Bowling: The pitch doesn’t offer much turn, but disciplined spinners can still make an impact.
Toss Prediction: Bowl First
The recent record at this venue favors teams chasing, with four of the last five ODIs being won by the side batting second. With cloud cover and potential drizzle expected, captains might prefer to bowl first.
Winning Prediction
Both teams enter this match in great form, but South Africa’s balanced bowling attack could be the decisive factor. Australia’s batting is strong, but their bowling unit has been inconsistent. If South Africa’s pacers exploit the conditions, they have a great chance to dominate.
Prediction: South Africa to win!
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