Heinrich Klaasen Back? South Africa's Probable XI For Champions Trophy Match Vs AUS

SA predicted XI Vs AUS [Source: AP Photo]

After a resounding victory against a tricky Afghanistan side, one of the tournament favourites, South Africa will take on Australia in a riveting battle on Tuesday, February 25. The Proteas thumped the Afghan side in a one-sided battle and now have one foot in the semi-finals.

Their next clash against Australia will be a difficult affair as the Aussies are also coming into this game on the back of a stellar run-chase Vs England. South Africa will have their task cut-off for this game and they could be tempted to make a big change for the upcoming match.

Heinrich Klaasen back, de Zorzi out?

Heinrich Klaasen is the best ODI batter of this South African side and is an undisputed starter. However, he missed the Afghanistan clash due to an injury and despite his absence, the Proteas won the contest easily.

During the last match, captain Temba Bavuma stated that the injury isn't serious and Klaasen should make a full-recovery before the Aussie match. If Klaasen is fit, he will directly slot into the lineup and that would mean the sacrifice of Tony de Zorzi.

The opening batter has decent numbers in ODIs - scoring 482 runs in 14 matches, but Klaasen is a different player altogether and the opening batter might have to sit out of the next match.

Heinrich Klaasen ODI stats

The numbers say it all, Klaasen has mind-boggling numbers in ODIs, especially considering the fact that he bats in the middle-order and plays an aggressive brand of cricket. There is no substitute for him and the data tells the entire story.

Bavuma to open alongside Ryan Rickelton

If Klaasen comes back in for de Zorzi, the opening slot will be vacant and Proteas skipper, Temba Bavuma is likely to promote himself at that position. As an opener, he has 1160 runs in ODIs, and that is his preferred spot in the 50-overs format.

This would mean that Klaasen will likely to bat at number 5, with Rassie van der Dussen at 3, Aiden Markram at 4, and David Miller at 6.

The rest of the team should remain the same since the Proteas side as a unit did extremely well against the Afghan team.

South Africa probable XI for Australia match

Ryan Rickelton (wk), Temba Bavuma (c), Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi

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