ODI World Cup 2023: South Africa's strongest predicted playing XI against Netherlands

As the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 unfolds, South Africa (RSA) are riding high on a wave of momentum. In the upcoming 15th match, they face off against the Netherlands (NED), and they're looking to extend their winning streak. The South African team is confident following their spectacular victory over the Australians.

In stark contrast, the Netherlands are still in search of their maiden win in the tournament. Their recent loss to New Zealand has left them eager to prove themselves. However, the Dutch side faces an uphill battle, given their lack of experience compared to other teams.

The Dutch side's batting performance has been less than impressive in their previous matches. It's important that they capitalise on opportunities, especially when they have the ball in hand. Their bowlers face a stern test against a formidable South African lineup, which boasts key players in sublime form.

South African skipper Temba Bavuma's team has made an exceptional start in the competition. Their most recent triumph over Australia, where they triumphed by a significant margin of 134 runs, underscores their potential. With key players like Quinton de Kock, Rassie van der Dussen, and Aiden Markram in excellent form, South Africa are poised to climb the points table.

On the other hand, the Netherlands, led by Scott Edwards, need a turnaround after suffering two consecutive losses, the most recent being a 99-run defeat to New Zealand. The Dutch side faces an uphill task, going up against a formidable South African batting lineup.

Here's South Africa's Predicted XI against the Netherlands:

Openers: Temba Bavuma, Quinton de Kock 

Quinton de Kock scored a hundred in the last game and will look to deliver a confident start with Temba Bavuma in this game. de Kock has smashed two back-to-back centuries in the tournament, the first against Sri Lanka and the last one against the Aussies. On the other hand, Temba Bavuma has looked in both matches and got some start but hasn't been able to convert those starts into a significant knock.

Middle Order: Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller

The middle order has done well for the Proteas team, and they will look for partnerships between Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, and Heinrich Klaasen. David Miller is a good hitter and adds firepower to the batting line-up. Dussen and Markram have already smashed centuries in the tournament and showcased their real prowess with the bat.

Markram smashed a quick-fire fifty as well against the Aussies in the last match to propel his team to a 300-plus score on a challenging wicket. David Miller hasn't got much time to bat in the tournament yet, courtesy of some brilliance with the bat by the teams' top order but has done quite well in the limited opportunities he has got so far.

Also Check: Most Runs in ODI World Cup 2023

All-Rounders: Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj

The Proteans will rely heavily on Marco Jansen and Keshav Maharaj to contribute in both batting and bowling departments. Jansen has been impressive with the ball, taking crucial wickets in the matches so far. Although he hasn't had much opportunity to showcase his batting skills, he has played valuable cameos. The team hopes he can continue to make an impact with the new ball and put pressure on the opposition.

Maharaj has been a standout performer with his crafty left-arm finger spin, consistently troubling the opposition batters. He has also shown good form in the recent series against Australia after returning from injury. While he is capable of holding the bat if needed, the team would prefer their top-order batters to perform well and not give him a chance to bat.

Bowlers: Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi, Kagiso Rabada

Lungi Ngidi and Marco Jansen bowled effectively against Australia, and they will aim to take early wickets for the team. Kagiso Rabada will use his pace to trouble the Dutch batters in the middle overs, displaying his unique skill. Tabraiz Shamsi will find the conditions favourable and play a crucial role with his crafty left-arm leg spin and googlies.

Also Check: Most Wickets in ODI World Cup 2023

South Africa's Predicted XI:

Quinton de Kock(w), Temba Bavuma(c), Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi