After being winless for three matches at the Super 12s, Bangladesh's chances of entering the semi-finals are all but over. They have been jolted further with Shakib Al Hasan was ruled out of the tournament due of a hamstring injury. They have little but pride to play for when they take on South Africa in an afternoon game in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday.
For Bangladesh, replacing Shakib is a huge challenge in a near-dead rubber. Shamim Hossain seems the frontrunner for that spot, but the vacancy could also be filled by Nasum Ahmed or Rubel Hossain. They are still waiting for their potent middle order to fire.
On the other hand, it is an important game for South Africa. They have not only managed to handle the Quinton de Kock's controversy professionally, but have also been clinical with their on-field performance.
Temba Bavuma has led the side well, but needs to up his scoring rate as opener. The likes of Rassie van der Dussen and Aiden Markram have made up for that, but against strong opposition, they may run out of steam.
Among bowlers, Anrich Nortje, Dwaine Pretorius and Tabraiz Shamsi have all impressed. It is not often that Kagiso Rabada find himself at the bottom of the pile.
Likely XIs
South Africa: Quinton de Kock (wk), Reeza Hendricks, Rassie van der Dussen, Temba Bavuma (c), Aiden Markram, David Miller, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Anrich Nortje, Tabraiz Shamsi
Bangladesh: Mohammad Naim, Liton Das (wk), Soumya Sarkar, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah (c), Afif Hossain, Mahedi Hasan, Shamim Hossain, Shoriful Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman
Fantasy tips
- Since it is an afternoon game, spin is going play a crucial part. Pick slow bowlers in your side.
- Middle-order batters like van der Dussen, Markram, Rahim and Mahmudullah can be useful picks.
- Despite his form, back Rabada to pick a few wickets. He, along with Nortje, will be decent picks for your fantasy XI.
Fantasy XI
Quinton de Kock (wk), Mushfiqur Rahim, Rassie van der Dussen, Mohammad Naim, Mahedi Hasan, Aiden Markram (vc), Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje (c), Tabraiz Shamsi