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ICC World Cup 2019: England vs South Africa: Three battles that might decide the result of match
Both the teams are filled with star performers, be it in the batting or bowling department. These are several battles which would decide the course of the match
Hosts and hot favourites facing one of the strongest teams of the tournament at the iconic Oval is how the mega World Cup gets underway. The cricket enthusiasts would have probably not asked for a better start as both England and South Africa are strong contenders. Having not tasted the World Cup victory thus far, these two sides would be surely more eager to do well than the rest of teams. There are several battles to watch out for in the match; however, a few are most likely to decide the course of the match. In this piece, let's check out those three battles.
Kagiso Rabada vs Jonny Bairstow
What can be a more interesting battle than the one between in-form bowler and the batsman whose bat has been a nightmare for blokes with the ball? Rabada and Bairstow have been in phenomenal form for Proteas and England, respectively. Both of them had an unforgettable IPL recently. It would be an epic scene to see who takes over whom as the two battle in the World Cup opener. Rabada is not going to give any leeway, while Bairstow won't leave anything in the radar. Subsequently, whosoever triumphs might take his team home.
Quinton de Kock vs Jofra Archer
Another interesting battle that can affect the result of this match would be between Quinton de Kock and Jofra Archer. The former has scored consistently for South Africa at the top-order, while latter made a miraculous entry into the English side. One fires the bullets with the ball and other hits them as hard. This contest is again something that cricket fans would not want to miss at any cost. Both of them are also returning from a good IPL season.
Moeen Ali and Andile Phehlukwayo
All-rounders without any doubt play an important role in the overall result of any match. For England, it is Moeen Ali, while for Proteas, Andile Phehlukwayo is someone who can turn the tables in both the departments. A lot will depend on who among the two takes the top seat in the encounter. Ali is handy with his off-breaks who can bat at any position and Phehlukwayo bowls medium pace apart from stroking the ball down the order.
