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South Africa are set to face Pakistan in the first ODI of their three-match series on December 17, 2024, at Boland Park in Paarl. Following a successful T20I series where South Africa clinched a 2-0 victory, the Proteas are looking to maintain their momentum in the 50-over format.
Top-order batter Temba Bavuma has been of the opening game rested despite being in the form of his life with the bat. In his absence, Aiden Markram will lead the Proteas side.
The upcoming leg holds significant importance for both South Africa and Pakistan with the Champions Trophy 2025 approaching. It offers an excellent opportunity for both sides to fine-tune their preparations for the marquee tournament. With both squads nearly at full strength, this promises to be an electrifying contest.
Format Switch in full-swing!👊
Our Proteas are getting stuck into their preparations ahead of the 1st of 3 ODI’s against Pakistan tomorrow in Paarl.🇿🇦🏏☀️
🎟️Get your tickets NOW at https://t.co/qMKjaITNM1#WozaNawe #BePartOfIt #SAvPAK pic.twitter.com/rEvyijuBKa
— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) December 16, 2024
Also READ: South Africa’s Anrich Nortje ruled out of the white-ball series against Pakistan; replacement announced for T20Is
SA vs PAK, 1st ODI: Predicted playing XI for South Africa
The South African team management has been working on fine-tuning their squad, and the predicted playing XI for the first ODI includes a blend of experience and youthful talent:
- Tony de Zorzi – Zorzi, known for his dynamic batting skills and versatility across formats, aims to set a solid foundation for the innings.
- Reeza Hendricks – Coming off a sensational century in the second match of the T20I series against Pakistan, Hendricks will be crucial at the top of the order.
- Rassie van der Dussen – Known for his consistency, van der Dussen will look to build partnerships and anchor the innings.
- Aiden Markram – A dynamic batter who can accelerate the scoring, Markram’s role will be pivotal in the middle overs.
- David Miller – With his explosive batting capabilities, Miller is expected to provide fireworks towards the end of the innings.
- Heinrich Klaasen (wk) – The wicketkeeper-batters has been in good form and will be crucial for both scoring runs and keeping wickets.
- Marco Jansen – An all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball, Jansen adds depth to the lineup.
- Kagiso Rabada – Returning to ODIs after a break, Rabada’s pace and experience will be vital in leading the bowling attack.
- Tabraiz Shamsi – The left-arm wrist-spinner will aim to exploit any turn on offer and take crucial wickets in the middle overs.
- Andile Phehlukwayo – Another all-rounder who can chip in with valuable runs and provide variety in the bowling attack.
- Kwena Maphaka – The 18-year-old pacer, fresh off his domestic success, is expected to make his ODI debut after impressing in the T20Is.
