WC 2023, SA vs AUS Semifinal 2 | Playing 11 Prediction, Cricket Tips, Preview & Live Streaming

SA vs AUS promises to be an exhilarating face-off (x.com)

The Eden Gardens in Kolkata is set to host a cricketing clash of monumental proportions as South Africa takes on Australia in the second semi-final of the World Cup 2023 on Thursday, November 16. The stage is set for an epic clash, reminiscent of their legendary 1999 semi-final encounter, etched in history for its heart-stopping tie.

Both teams, having mirrored each other's journey with 14 points apiece after nine games, bring to the table a mix of unique strengths and vulnerabilities. Their previous face-off in the tournament adds a layer of excitement to this cricketing ballet, as South Africa secured an emphatic 134-run victory over the five-time world champions.

SA vs AUS: Team Previews

South Africa

The Proteas, with seven victories, faced setbacks only against the Netherlands and India. Their arsenal brims with talent: Quinton de Kock, Aiden Markram, Rassie Van der Dussen, and Heinrich Klaasen have been formidable with the bat.

The bowling duo of Keshav Maharaj and Gerald Coetzee, claiming a combined haul of 32 wickets, have been the linchpins of their attack, although Kagiso Rabada has yet to hit his peak this tournament. Chasing, their proverbial Achilles' heel, looms as a potential pitfall in this crucial matchup.

Australia

On the other hand, Australia has risen like a phoenix after initial stumbles, stringing together seven consecutive wins. Their quest for a sixth World Cup title is fuelled by a deep-seated batting brilliance, showcased spectacularly in Glenn Maxwell's heroic performance against Afghanistan.

The top-order trinity of David Warner, Travis Head, and Mitchell Marsh have been pillars of consistency. Their bowling attack, spearheaded by the lethal duo of Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins and the spin of Adam Zampa, who has snagged 22 wickets at a staggering average, stands ready to challenge the Proteas.

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SA vs AUS: Match Details & Live Streaming

SA vs AUS: Kolkata Pitch Report

Eden Gardens Stadium in Kolkata is known for high-scoring ODIs, with an average first-innings score of 240 runs and 196 for the team chasing. India set the venue's record with a massive 404/5 against Sri Lanka in 2014. In 35 ODIs at Eden Gardens, the team batting first has won 21 times, while the second batting team has 13 wins, and one match was inconclusive. The pitch generally favours bowlers, especially spinners, as the match progresses. In the upcoming SA vs AUS match, given the strong batting lineups of both teams and a batter-friendly pitch, the captain winning the toss is likely to opt for batting first in this eagerly awaited contest.

SA vs AUS: Probable Playing XIs

South Africa: Quinton de Kock, Temba Bavuma (c), Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi

Australia: David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Josh Inglis, Marcus Stoinis, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood

SA vs AUS: Cricket Exchange Fantasy Tips

SA vs AUS: Prediction

Considering the vast experience in World Cup knockouts and current form, Australia is favourite to get the better of South Africa in this clash of monumental proportions.

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