World Cup 2019: Match 45, Australia vs South Africa Match Prediction - Who will win the match?
Australia will take on South Africa in the last match of the league stage of the World Cup, at Old Trafford, Manchester, on 6th June 2019. The five-time world champions can confirm the top spot in the standings by beating the Proteas, who were knocked out of the tournament quite early.
After an unconvincing start to the campaign, where they lost to India and had to fight to win against Pakistan and West Indies, the Australian team has improved with every passing game. They sit on the top of the standings and it will be difficult for the thus far lackluster South Africa to stop them.
On the other hand, South Africa have had a forgettable tournament as they have managed to beat only Afghanistan and Sri Lanka so far. The Proteas would be hoping to end the disappointing campaign on a high note by beating the Aussies.
Players under the spotlight
Australia
David Warner is one of the most devastating openers in the world. The left-handed batsman has not gone for his shots from the start in this tournament, as he has tried to stay at the crease for as long as possible. Warner failed in the last match against the Kiwis, so he would want to get back in form ahead of the knockouts.
Mitchell Starc has started this tournament from where he left off in the last World Cup. The Man of the Tournament of the 2015 edition is the top wicket-taker in this edition with 24 wickets to his name. The left-arm pacer has the ability to run through batting line-ups, so the South Africans must be on their toes.
South Africa
Quinton de Kock has the ability to take the game away from the opposition by getting his team off to a flier. However, he has struggled with form and consistency throughout the World Cup, so it will be interesting to see if he can finish off with a good knock.
Kagiso Rabada is one of the most complete fast bowlers in the world. While he has been inconsistent lately, the Australian batsmen must be wary of the threat posed by him due to his record against them. If he can dismiss the openers early, Australia will surely be in trouble.
Who will win the match?
It seems to be a one-sided match as there is a gulf in the quality between two teams. While South Africa also have some match-winners, Australia has been in much better form than their opponent. They will be the favourites going into this match, as they can outplay South Africa in both the batting and bowling departments.
Also read – World cup winners list
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