India qualified for the Super 8s with a perfect record in the group stage. They started their campaign with a victory over the US before defeating Namibia, Pakistan and the Netherlands. The Men in Blue will hope to maintain the same form against the Proteas.
Also read: All is not well in the Pakistani camp? Salman Ali Agha clears the air ahead of the Super 8 match against New Zealand
Ahead of the crucial match, Abhishek Sharma’s form will be a major concern for the home side. The southpaw entered the tournament as the best T20I batsman in the world but has failed to make any impact so far.
Abhishek Sharma’s bad form:
Abhishek Sharma is yet to hit the ground running in his maiden T20 World Cup despite playing three matches. He was out for a duck against the US before missing the match against Namibia due to stomach problems. In his comeback against Pakistan, the opening batsman once again failed to open his account.
His fortunes did not change against the Netherlands either, as he was once again looking for a duck. With three ducks in as many matches, Abhishek Sharma will be under heavy pressure to perform with the bat in the upcoming match. His failures have not cost India much in the tournament so far, but the team management is desperately hoping he will turn things around soon.
Abhishek Sharma should be dropped?
While Abhishek Sharma is undoubtedly one of the best T20I batsmen in the world at the moment, rumors are rife that he will be dropped from the team following his recent poor form. There have been calls from various quarters to replace him with Sanju Samson.
However, it seems highly unlikely that Abhishek Sharma will make way for another batsman from India’s eleven. During the pre-match press conference, India’s assistant coach Morne Morkel made it clear that the under-pressure batsman has the full support of the team management. Morkel also stated that Sharma is doing well in the nets and will bounce back soon.
“Absolutely no discussion about Abhishek Sharma in the group. He will perform, for the team and the viewers. He is entertaining. He hits the ball well in the net.” Morkel told the media.
India looks important victory:
The match against South Africa will be an important match for India. A win over the high-flying Proteas will be a huge boost to India’s semi-final hopes. Like India, South Africa has also won all four group matches and will also be keen to extend its unbeaten run.
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