World Cup 2023, PAK vs SA | Playing 11 Prediction, Cricket Tips, Preview & Live Streaming

Pakistan lost their last game against Afghanistan [AP]

The ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 is set for a thrilling encounter as the confident South African team faces a struggling Pakistan side in match 26 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Both teams aim to secure a pivotal victory at different ends of the spectrum as the tournament's intensity rises.

PAK vs SA: Team Previews

Pakistan

Pakistan began the tournament positively with wins against the Netherlands and Sri Lanka. However, they have faltered with consecutive losses to India, Australia, and Afghanistan. The defeat to Afghanistan was particularly disappointing, given Pakistan's strong position in the first innings. Pakistan's campaign has been inconsistent, with both batting and bowling faltering at different junctures.

Shaheen Shah Afridi has been taking wickets, but his inability to make early breakthroughs in the powerplay remains a concern. Haris Rauf has struggled with conceding runs, and the spinners have failed to leave a significant impact. Pakistan's recent three consecutive losses emphasize the critical importance of securing a victory against South Africa to stay in contention for a semi-final spot. 

For Pakistan to overcome the Proteas' challenge, they need an all-round performance that addresses their batting inconsistencies and bowling concerns. 

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MA Chidambaram Stadium Chennai Pitch Report For PAK vs SA World Cup Match

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South Africa

South Africa have had a brilliant campaign [AP]

South Africa has asserted its dominance in the competition, positioning itself as a top contender for the World Cup title. Their performance has been comprehensive in all facets of the game, making them a formidable force. The Proteas have shown consistency in batting, bowling, and fielding, and they are equipped to challenge any opponent. 

Led by the brilliant Quinton de Kock, their batting lineup has been ruthless, while Heinrich Klaasen brings an added dimension to the middle order. The Proteas have reliable bowlers such as Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada, and the emergence of Gerald Coetzee as a new strike weapon adds depth to their bowling attack.

He has been consistently taking more than two wickets per match, and fast bowlers Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen have been prolific as well. The return of injured players like Temba Bavuma and Lungi Ngidi remains uncertain.

Chennai's challenging conditions will test the adaptability of South African players, especially their batters. Under no circumstances can they underestimate Pakistan, a team that can pose a serious challenge.

The match promises to be a high-stakes clash, with both teams eager to secure a win in this pivotal stage of the World Cup.

PAK vs SA: Match Details & Live Streaming

PAK vs SA: Pitch Report

Chepauk doesn't typically yield high scores, making it a favourable ground for deploying spin bowlers. In a recent game, Afghanistan opted for four spinners and delivered 38 overs of spin during their victorious match against Pakistan at this venue. 

The pitch prepared for the upcoming match is anticipated to assist the spinners. Batters will need to capitalize on the Powerplay overs to accumulate runs. Historically, the pitch has performed better under the lights, so both teams will be eager to win the toss, choose to bowl first and aim to restrict the opposition to a target of under 280 runs.

PAK vs SA: Probable Playing XIs

Pakistan: Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Usama Mir, Shaheen Afridi, Hasan Ali, Haris Rauf/Muhammad Wasim Jnr.

South Africa: Quinton de Kock (wk), Reeza Hendricks, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram (c), Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Gerald Coetzee, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lizaad Williams/Tabraiz Shamsi

PAK vs SA: Cricket Exchange Fantasy Tips

PAK vs SA: Prediction 

Considering their current form in the ongoing World Cup, South Africa is undoubtedly the front-runner to win the game in their upcoming clash against Pakistan.

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MA Chidambaram Stadium Weather Report for PAK VS SA World Cup Match

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