SA v Eng 3rd ODI Preview: Pride at stake for the Proteas

Somehow, it’s all coming right for the English side in the rainbow nation. Having clinched the Test series and leading 2-0 in the 5 match ODI series, AB de Villers & Co. will have a lot to ponder. The Brits have been in magnificent form, firing on all cylinders. Alex Hales too has now got into the act with his match-winning performance in the second ODI. The Proteas will have to pick up a win at Supersport Park to avoid a humiliating series loss in their own backyard.

South Africa:

It is certainly no secret that the Proteas have been struggling since the turn of the year. Having lost the first 2 ODIs, AB de Villiers and his men must win the third match if they have any hope for the series. The form of veteran opener Hashim Amla will be a concern for the Proteas. Having failed in both ODIs, the selectors will certainly be considering their options. Rilee Rossouw will be a favourite to open the innings with Quinton de Kock. The return of Kagiso Rabada in the second ODI has added a much-needed boost to the bowling attack.

However, the form of the bowlers has been a worry. Imran Tahir, Marchant de Lange and Morne Morkel haven’t lived up to their billing. De Villiers will be hoping that his side fires at the Centurion on Tuesday.

England:

The tour of South Africa has been the perfect tonic for the England side that hadn’t had the best of 2015. Alex Hales’ 99 in the second ODI in Johannesburg saw them pick up a 22-run win over the hosts. Jos Buttler once again came up with the goods, smashing an unbeaten 48. The performance by left-arm speedster Reece Topley however, was unexpected as the youngster picked up 4 wickets in 9 overs.

With the 3^rd ODI to be played in Centurion, Eoin Morgan will be hoping that his men can wrap up the series on Tuesday.

Probable XI:

South Africa:

Hashim Amla/Rilee Russouw, Quinton de Kock, AB de Villiers (C), Faf du Plessis, David Miller, Farhaan Behardien, JP Duminy,  Kagiso Rabada, Imran Tahir, Marchant de Lange, Albie Morkel

England:

Jason Roy, Alex Hales, Eoin Morgan (C), Reece Topley, David Willey, Ben Stokes, Adil Rasheed, Moeen Ali, Jos Buttler, Jonny Bairstow, Joe Root

Stats & Trivia:

• England has won just once in Centurion in November 2009 when they beat South Africa by 7 wickets.
• The last ODI played at Supersport Park came on the 19^th of August 2009 when South Africa beat New Zealand by 20 runs.