MSL 2019: Match 7, Durban Heat vs Paarl Rocks: Match Prediction – Weather Report, Pitch Conditions, Playing XIs and Live Streaming Details

The Durban Heat hasn’t played a game thus far in the 2019 edition of the Mzansi Super League. Their opening match against Tshwane Spartans at the Kingsmead in Durban was washed out due to rain. Their next game is versus the Paarl Rocks at home itself. The hosts’ task won’t be easy as the Rocks, led by Faf du Plessis, have made a thunderous start with an 86-run win over Cape Town Blitz.

The Rocks lost JP Duminy to a hamstring injury, but it didn’t divert their focus from performing to expectations. The Rocks have a decent record over the Heat, winning both their matches last season. At home, the Heat don’t have a great record, having lost three out of their four matches. The Heat looks a tad short on firepower compared to the Rocks, but T20 cricket can spring surprises any day.

Pitch and Conditions

There are 54 chances of rain around 7 PM to 8 PM and hence, there could be interruptions if not an abandoned affair. The clouds will be there throughout with the temperature at 21 degrees Celsius. As far as the pitch is concerned, in the last MSL, the average score was around 145 . Three of the four games last season were won by the team, batting second and so, chasing should be the way forward.

Team Combinations             

Durban Heat

The Heat will depend heavily on Alex Hales to fire on all cylinders. In the middle order, the onus will be on the experienced head of David Miller and Ravi Bopara. Sarel Erwee and Khaya Zondo need to step up as well. In the bowling department, Kyle Abbott will undoubtedly be the key. Phehlukwayo has the knack of chipping in with wickets. A lot will depend on Shaun von Berg and Keshav Maharaj.

Probable XI

Alex Hales, Sarel Erwee, Dane Vilas (C & WK), Khaya Zondo, David Miller, Ravi Bopara, Andile Phehlukwayo, Malusi Siboto/Marco Jansen, Shaun von Berg, Keshav Maharaj, Kyle Abbott

Paarl Rocks

The Rocks put up a collective effort in batting against the Blitz. Henry Davids, captain Faf du Plessis and Dwaine Pretorius scored in the 30s. Even Cameron Delport got a 13-ball 19 to set the tone. But the team will have to sort out their middle order combination. The spinners- Tabraiz Shamsi and Bjorn Fortuin are in excellent form. Every other Rocks’ bowler picked up at least one wicket.

Probable XI

Henry Davids, Cameron Delport, Faf du Plessis (C), Dwaine Pretorius, Hardus Viljoen, Mangaliso Mosehle (wk), Isuru Udana, Ferisco Adams, Sibonele Makhanaya, Bjorn Fortuin, Tabraiz Shamsi

Probable Top Performers

Alex Hales– Durban Heat | Faf du Plessis- Paarl Rocks

Broadcast Details

TV – Sony ESPN, Sony ESPN HD

Online– Sony Liv

Match Timings – 21:00 IST, and 17:30 local.

The prediction is for Paarl Rocks to win the match.