Couch Critic previews the first test match between Pakistan and South Africa including best bets from @Olimp_SA
PAKISTAN vs SOUTH AFRICA 1st Test, Karachi - 26 Jan @ 07:00
The Proteas rather comfortably put the Sri Lankans away in home comforts but now they have to show whether it is indeed the start of a new dawn as they get tested in foreign conditions against foe about as predictable as a US election.
Setting the Scene
It’s a mid-table battle going on ICC Rankings as Pakistan host South Africa for a two-test series. The sub-continent side recently lost their away series to England but were mostly competitive – they lost the only resulting test by a mere 3 wickets. During their last home efforts the Paki’s beat Sri Lanka and also handed Bangladesh an innings defeat. South Africa experienced their wobbles at times when hosting Sri Lanka recently but like Geniel de Villiers in the Dakar they were able to negotiate their way to the chequered flag. The question is whether they can steer clear of throwing the car over in more unfamiliar terrain.
Whilst one usually expects the ball to turn square when playing in Asia this isn’t really the case at Karachi. During the last test played here Pakistan were rolled for 190 odd with Lahiru Kamara sporting the best first innings figures for Sri Lanka. Pakistan in turn had Shaheen Afrida and Naseem Shah both picking up Michelle’s in the match. For the most part this Karachi track is known for high scores – the home side chalked up 555/3 declared in their second innings against the Lankans.
How I see it Playing Out
Pakistan might have some question marks around their batting line-up bit if fails in comparison to those amongst their visitors. The likes of Van der Dussen and Bavuma will be well tested and even the steadier performers in the SA ranks, such as Elgar and De Kock could be challenged by these conditions. Pakistan are a much stronger opponent than Sri Lanka at present and I think the Proteas will struggle to find the terroir to their liking for optimum growth and flowering.
Betolimp Best Bets
To win the 1st Test – Pakistan @ 1.72
Top South Africa 1st Inns Batsman – Faf du Plessis @ 4.00
Du Plessis is the most experienced of the SA batsmen and despite none of the current crop of Proteas having had the experience of playing in Pakistan before, as the wise old head the ex-skipper will be tasked with leading the charge with the willow. He doesn’t have the best figures when playing in the sub-continent but this is a newer, fresher version of Faf we are seeing at present and I expect him to produce the runs.
Top South Africa 1st Inns Bowler – Anrich Nortje @ 4.50
Rabada is back and much will be expected of him to lead the SA attack. But Annas has more game-time under the belt and looked to be finding his best form late against Sri Lanka. The pitch could take some of the sting out of his biggest weapons but I still feel there is little substitute for pace.
Top Pakistan 1st Innings Bowler – Yasir Shah @ 4.00
Shaheen Shah Afrida is a firm favourite of mine but I can’t look past the SA troubles against spin.
Man of the Match – Babar Azam @ 9.00
I expect bat to dominate ball here and as such I will back the best batsman in the match to be the standout performer.
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Note, odds quoted are available at the time of writing but are subject to change
Couch Critic
