Couch Critic previews the first ODI between South Africa and Pakistan which takes place at Centurion on Friday 2nd April including best bets from @Olimp_SA
SOUTH AFRICA vs PAKISTAN 1st ODI, Centurion - 02 Apr @ 10:00
The Proteas finally get back into international action as they host Pakistan for a white-ball series. Let’s take a look at the first ODI taking place in Pretoria on Friday.
Setting the Scene
The Themba Bavuma-era begins with the Proteas hosting the Pakistani’s at Centurion. With all the focus currently on the shortest format of the game it is nice to have the opportunity of sinking our teeth into the 50-over format for these three games.
The visitors have a decent looking side with a top-four consisting of plenty potential in Imam-ul-Haq, Fakhar Zaman, the brilliant Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. The question is whether they have lower order fire power. The bowling depth of Pakistan will also come into question in the more pace-friendly Highveld conditions and with only Shaheen Shah Afrida as world class option in this regard.
The biggest issue for the hosts is their lack of recent competition. The Saffas will have to hit the ground running if they don’t want to have to play catch-up later in the series and that without their IPL stars. It will be interesting to see the new-era Protea side will line-up for this first clash of the series.
How I see it Playing Out
Due to bio-bubble measures all matches will be played in either Johannesburg or Pretoria. Conditions at the Wanderers and Centurion should suit South Africa like a glove and as such it will prove a tough assignment for Pakistan regardless of how rusty the home side are and irrespective of their off-field issues.
Betolimp Best Bets
Top South Africa Batsman – Themba Bavuma @ 5.00
Bavuma is guaranteed to play and bat in the top 3. The new skipper will be keen as to get his reign off to a bright start.
Top Pakistan Batsman – Mohammad Rizwan @ 6.50
Rizwan was in superb form against South Africa a few months ago and his fond memories of this opposition should hold him in good stead.
Top Pakistan Bowler – Usman Qadir @ 4.50
The leggy had the SA batsmen in all sorts of strife in the series in Pakistan and given the struggles of the home nations against spin Qadir should fancy his chances of getting a run and having plenty of success on this trip.
Man of the Match – Kagiso Rabada @ 11.00
Rabada showed domestically that he was capable of switching on very quickly. He is a cut above the rest of the bowlers in this SA unit and should come out firing on pitches that suit him.
Note, odds quoted are available at the time of writing but are subject to change
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