IND vs SA, 1st ODI: Dissecting the key player battles
What's the story
Team India and South Africa are all set to clash in a three-match ODI series, starting November 30 in Ranchi. The Men in Blue will be led by KL Rahul as regular captain Shubman Gill has been ruled out due to a neck injury. South Africa, who won the Test leg of the tour 2-0, will look to continue their dominance. Here we look at the key player battles that might be on display in the series opener.
#1
KL Rahul vs Keshav Maharaj
Known for his versatility, Rahul averages over 55 while batting at four and five in the format. However, his average dips down significantly to 26.71 against SA. Left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj can challenge Rahul in the middle overs as the former is known to choke the flow of runs. As per ESPNcricinfo, Maharaj has trapped Rahul thrice across eight international meetings.
#2
Rohit Sharma vs Lungi Ngidi
Former captain Rohit Sharma was the Player of the Series in India's last ODI series, against Australia. In Gill's absence, Rohit will have additional responsibilities at the top of the order. The talisman will have his task cut out against Lungi Ngidi, who has trapped the Indian opener twice across three ODI meetings. However, Rohit has been aggressive in this battle, scoring 52 runs off just 36 balls.
#3
Quinton de Kock vs Arshdeep Singh
Quinton de Kock is one of the players to watch out for, as he has enjoyed playing against India in this format. The southpaw has returned with 1,077 runs against them at an average of 53.85. Left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh, who is looking to make a mark in ODIs, will look to trap de Kock with the new ball. Though the two players have not met in ODIs, Arshdeep has dismissed de Kock four times across eight T20 meetings.
#4
Matthew Breetzke vs Kuldeep Yadav
Batting sensation Matthew Breetzke has made a terrific start to his ODI career as he averages a stunning 67.75 after nine games. Left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav will look to challenge him with the old ball. Kuldeep, who is arguably the best spinner in white-ball cricket at the moment, boasts 27 ODI wickets against SA at a jaw-dropping average of 16.51.