The Proteas and India begin their 3 match ODI Series in Paarl on Wednesday with India the bookies favourites to take the victory.
Temba Bavuma will captain the South African ODI side as they look to build on what was a thrilling come from behind 2-1 Test Series victory over India.
The ODI format is of course very different and there is no doubt that confidence and belief will be flowing through the team. South Africa haven't been in ODI action since September when they were beaten 2-1 by Sri Lanka and prior to that they had a disappointing 1-1 draw in Ireland. Their last home series was in April 2021 and they lost 2-1 to Pakistan.
India will be looking for revenge in the one day format and all eyes will be on Virat Kohli who quit the Test Captaincy after the Newlands defeat. Rahul is going to captain the Indian squad which certainly looks packed with quality.
India last toured South Africa 4 years ago when they comfortably beat South Africa 5-1 in a 6 match ODI Series.
The Proteas last played an ODI in Paarl back in 2020 against Australia where they had a comfortable victory by 74 runs.
1st ODI BETTING – Click here to bet
South Africa 15/10
India 11/20
Suggested Bet: South Africa win at 15/10
India always put out a top ODI side, but South Africa have plenty of strong players as well and they look a bit overpriced for me to win this 1st ODI.
Suggested Bet: Highest Individual Score under 110.5 runs at 17/20
The ball certainly dominated the bat in the Test Series and although they now play on a flatter track in Paarl, I think the bowlers can stay in ascendency.
Suggested Bet: Top Home Batsman, Aiden Markram at 7/2
Quinton de Kock heads this market at 5/2 and both men will be eager to prove a point. I am keen on Markram though especially after his strong performance in the T20’s and although he didn’t perform in the Test Series he certainly looked in decent nick at the start of his innings.
Suggested Bet: Top Home Bowler, Shamsi at 7/2
Shamsi is ultra-consistent in ODI cricket and there is no doubt the Indians are going to have to try to get after him and that should open up wicket taking opportunities.
Note: All prices correct at the time of writing but are subject to change
