MSL T20 2018, Match 2, Jozi Stars vs Nelson Mandela Bay Giants, Match Prediction: Who will win the Match?

Both the teams will be wanting to quickly figure out the best possible combinations early in the tournament.

Published - 17 Nov 2018, 11:42 IST | Updated - 17 Nov 2018, 11:42 IST

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South Africa’s homegrown cricket league, the Mzansi Super League (MSL) was finally underway last night. The league kicked off on a great note and was amazing to watch. The action will continue on the weekend for the second game of the tournament. Jozi Stars will play hosts to the Nelson Mandela Bay Giants at the New Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg.

One could expect a huge number of fans to turn up at the Bullring for this match. The home team will be having a lot of encouragement and the atmosphere out there could be intimidating for the Giants. Both the teams will be wanting to quickly figure out the best possible combinations that will work for them early in the tournament. Some of the Proteas cricketers who are currently down under will be missing this game.

Pitch and Conditions

The Jozi Stars played a practice game against the Tshwane Spartans just about three days ago. It was a high-scoring encounter at the Bullring with over 400 runs scored in the match. The Stars, however, ended up on the losing side by a mere margin of 5 runs. There could be another high-scoring encounter on the cards and there wouldn’t be any respite for the bowlers.

It is a cloudy day on Saturday and there could be some rain in the afternoon. Things are expected to clear up as the evening progresses. The weather is quite chilled out with a nice breeze blowing around which should be enjoyable for the players. The side winning the toss might look to bowl first.

Team Combinations

Jozi Stars

The ‘Universe Boss’ Chris Gayle has arrived in the rainbow nation for the MSL 2018. He will play the game on Saturday and will open the innings with Rassie van der Dussen who was great in the practice game. Dane Vilas will be leading the side. However, the team has got three wicket-keeping options in the XI and it is uncertain at the moment as to who will don the gloves.

Daniel Christian is the other overseas player in the side. Simon Kuhn, who is a Kolpak cricketer, is also considered to be an overseas recruit. The Stars will miss Kagiso Rabada and Dwaine Pretorius for their first game.

Predicted XI: Chris Gayle, Rassie van der Dussen, Dane Vilas (c), Ryan Rickleton, Petrus van Biljon, Daniel Christian, Duanne Oliver, Calvin Savage, Eddie Leie, Simon Harmer, Bueren Hendricks.

Nelson Mandela Bay Giants

Just like the Jozi Stars, the Nelson Mandela Bay Giants are spoilt for options as far as keeping is concerned. JJ Smuts-led side will be missing Imran Tahir and Chris Morris for their opening encounter in the MSL. The English duo of Jason Roy and Ben Duckett could be opening the innings. Christiaan Jonker will assume the role of a finisher. Heino Kuhn, a Kolpak cricketer, is the other overseas player.

Predicted XI: Jason Roy, Ben Duckett, JJ Smuts (C), Heino Kuhn, Dyllan Matthews, Christiaan Jonker, Ryan McClaren, Sisanda Magala, Aaron Phangiso, Junior Dala, Lizaad Williams/Carmi le Roux.