SA vs PAK 3rd T20I Dream11 Fantasy Tips: 5 Top Picks For Grand League Contests

Debashis Sarangi

PAK vs SA dream11 fantasy tips for 3rd T20I [AP]PAK vs SA dream11 fantasy tips for 3rd T20I [AP]

After registering two clinical victories, South Africa are preparing to take on Pakistan in the final game of the ongoing three-match T20I series. The high-octane face-off will be played at the iconic Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg. 

Led by Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan have had a torrid run in the South Africa T20Is. They lost the first game by a narrow eleven-run margin before the Proteas crushed them by seven wickets in a high-scoring affair in Centurion. So, moving on to this match, the Men in Green would be desperate for a turnaround as it's a matter of their self-respect and pride. 

So, as both teams gear up for another exciting contest, let's see which players could be the top fantasy picks for Dream11 Grand League contests. But before proceeding, we must analyse Wanderers Stadium's playing conditions. 

Wanderers Stadium Johannesburg Pitch Report

The surface at Wanderers Stadium will likely be batting-friendly, as evidenced by the average scoring rate of 8.74 in all men's T20Is at this venue. However, this ground has a reputation for providing inconsistent bounce from the hard-length region, a factor that might keep the hit-the-deck pacers interested. 

Also, the ground is situated 6000 feet above sea level, and the ball travels farther in the air at the Bull Ring. So, the batters will likely play more aerial shots and try to get the advantage of the conditions. From a fantasy game's perspective, stroke players from both sides will be crucial, while middle and death overs specialists could also play a significant role. 

5 Top Picks For SA vs PAK 3rd T20I Dream11 Grand League Contests

Rassie Van der Dussen

  • The experienced South African cricketer has been the most successful batter at this venue, amassing 1407 runs at an average of 41.38 and a strike rate of 142.12. 
  • He showcased remarkable form in the last game, scoring 66 runs off just 38 deliveries. So, considering his recent form and stellar record at this venue, Rassie could be a vital player in your dream team. 

Saim Ayub

  • The swashbuckling left-handed batter was exceptional with the bat in the second T20I, hammering 98* runs with the help of eleven boundaries and five sixes. 
  • Saim Ayub loves to go aerial, and his aggressive intent in the powerplay might help you earn some crucial fantasy points in this match.

Kwena Maphaka

  • The left-arm fast bowler has been impressive in this T20I series. Despite going wicketless in the second T20I, Maphaka grabbed the eyeballs with hostile fast bowling. 
  • Apart from swinging the new ball upfront, the teenage sensation can hit the deck hard and hence might trouble the visitors by utilising the track's bounce with raw pace. He plays for the local team, Lions, and has scalped 16 wickets in nine T20 outings at a brilliant strike rate of 13.3 at this venue. 

Reeza Hendricks

  • Reeza Hendricks oozed his class with the bat in the second T20I, amassing a glorious century for his team. 
  • The batter has ample experience of playing at this venue, having represented Joburg Super Kings in the SA20. Statistically, he is the second most successful batter at the Wanderers Stadium with 1303 runs in 46 innings. 

Haris Rauf

  • The experienced fast bowler has been miserable on this tour, going wicketless for 98 runs in eight overs across two matches. However, if there's some inconsistent bounce, Rauf can emerge as Pakistan's go-to bowler in Johannesburg with his hit-the-deck bowling. 

P.S: Apart from these players, George Linde (if SA bowl 2nd; he has 20 wickets in 15 T20s at Wanderers), Ryan Rickelton (587 runs at a SR of 150.51 at Wanderers) and Abbas Afridi could be useful picks for your dream11 team.