IND vs SA 2nd ODI: India has taken a 1-0 lead in the series by winning the first ODI in Ranchi. However, many questions remain before the second match to be held in Raipur. Kohli’s century and Rohit Sharma’s aggressive 57 runs definitely helped India win, but there is still some concern about the team combination.
What does Raipur’s pitch say?
Only one ODI has been played so far at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Stadium, Raipur, against New Zealand in January 2023. In that match, Mohammed Shami and Siraj took advantage of tremendous swing and seam movement and reduced the Kiwi team to 108 runs. India won the match by eight wickets with 30 overs remaining.
The last major international match here took place in T20 format in December 2023, in which India defeated Australia by 20 runs. The fans are very excited about the return of Rishabh Pant. At present the team management seems to be in no mood to rush him. There is doubt regarding Pant’s return.
What will be India’s playing 11?
Despite the result in the first match, one or two changes may be seen in the Indian team. The biggest question is about Ruturaj Gaikwad, who was sent at number four but he did not look comfortable. Washington Sundar also has to face constant changes in the batting order. In the first match, he came at number five but could not play a long innings. Even in bowling he got only three overs.
On the contrary, Kuldeep Yadav took 4 wickets and gave away 68 runs, but his diversity is a plus point for India. It is almost certain that Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna and Arshdeep Singh will play among the fast bowlers.
India’s probable playing XI
Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Ruturaj Gaikwad, KL Rahul (captain), Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, Arshdeep Singh.
Probable playing 11 of South Africa: Temba Bavuma (captain), Aiden Markram, Quinton de Kock, Matthew Bretzke, Tony DeGeorge, Dewald Brewis, Marco Jansson, Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj, Nandre Berger, Otniel Baartman.
