In the second semi-final of the 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup at a cloud-covered Eden Gardens, South Africa's captain, Temba Bavuma, won the toss and made the decision to bat first against Australia on Thursday. The outcome of this clash will determine who faces hosts India in the championship match at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday.
Despite concerns over the heavy cloud cover and slight drizzle, the toss proceeded as scheduled, overcoming the looming threat of rain hovering around the match.
Opting to bat first, South Africa is relying on their strength in setting up totals in this tournament. Bavuma confirmed the inclusion of Tabraiz Shamsi and Marco Jansen in the playing eleven, replacing Lungi Ngidi and Andile Phehlukwayo.
While considering the weather conditions, Bavuma highlighted the team's strengths in their decision-making process, acknowledging his own physical condition but expressing confidence in being sufficiently fit. Leading his team into a semi-final holds great significance for Bavuma, acknowledging the immense weight of carrying the hopes and dreams of the people back home.
Maintaining focus on the game at hand, Bavuma mentioned receiving a heartfelt message from the rugby team earlier that day, steering away from dwelling too much on the magnitude of the occasion.
Australia, on the other hand, brought Glenn Maxwell and Mitchell Starc into the playing eleven, replacing Marcus Stoinis and Sean Abbott. Expressing a preference to bat first due to the gloomy conditions, the Australian team anticipated early swing in the match. Captain Pat Cummins acknowledged similarities in playing styles between the two teams and reflected on their recent victories, asserting their readiness for the crucial encounter.
Despite acknowledging some recent underperformances, Cummins instilled confidence in his team's experience and positivity, emphasizing their approach and resilience in the last seven games.
Playing XIs
Australia: Travis Head, David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, Steven Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Josh Inglis (wicket-keeper), Pat Cummins (captain), Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa and Josh Hazlewood
South Africa: Quinton de Kock (wicket-keeper), Temba Bavuma (captain), Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Gerald Coetzee, Kagiso Rabada and Tabraiz Shamsi
(With Agency Inputs)
