SA vs ENG, 2nd ODI: Preview, Prediction, Probable XI, Live Streaming
Rassie van der Dussen scored a century [Associated Press]
Before the start of the series, a lot of buzz was going around regarding the shaky Proteas batting lineup. But they brushed the negative talks and Rassie van der Dussen led the charge as South Africa defeated England by 27 runs on Friday.
England fans were ecstatic, seeing Jofra Archer make his long awaited return to the national squad, but the fairytale return didn't last for long as the seamer looked out of touch and went for a plenty in the first ODI.
For South Africa, there were a lot of positives to take from the opening ODI. Despite scoring a mere 36, Tembva Bavuma looked good and surprisingly was the aggressor in a partnership alongside the naturally aggressive Quinton de Kock.
Rassie van der Dussen continued his dream ODI run and notched up yet another century which eventually helped his side take a lead in the series. Sisanda Magala was under immense pressure heading into the contest, but the pacer delivered a man of the match performance and snatched the win from the jaws of defeat.
On the other hand, England were well on their course to achieve the victory, but a middle order blip didn't help their cause. But there was one man for the visitors, who showed his worth - Jason Roy. His place was under scrutiny, but Roy outclassed everyone and scored a gritty 91-ball 113 to almost take his side past the winning line.
England need to win the second game to stay alive in the series.
Match Preview
Date and Time: January 29, 1:30 PM IST
Venue: Mangaung Oval, Bloemfontein
Live Telecast/Streaming: Star Sports and Disney Hotstar
Pitch Report
A batting paradise, but only if you give respect to the bowlers in the first 10 overs. Hard surface, which will give assistance to the pacers early on. Spinners will hardly get anything from the surface, as seen in the opening ODI. Toss winning captain would like to bowl first, considering the batting depth both teams offer.
Probable XI
SA: Temba Bavuma (c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Wayne Parnell, Sisanda Magala, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Tabraiz Shamsi
ENG: Jason Roy, Dawid Malan, Ben Duckett, Harry Brook, Jos Buttler (c & wk), Moeen Ali, Sam Curran, David Willey, Adil Rashid, Jofra Archer, Olly Stone
Prediction
With the series on the line, England have their backs against the walls. They showed glimpses of their ability, and expect them to come harder in the second ODI. England for the win.
Also Read: Jason Roy ton in vain as Nortje, Magala propels South Africa to win