Afghans play for pride while pressure mounts on SA skipper Bavuma

A lot more is at stake for Afghanistan than South Africa, who have already made the semi-finals alongside India and Australia

South Africa will look to fix their chasing troubles before the semi-finals while Afghanistan will back themselves to beat another top team when the two sides meet here on Friday. A lot more is at stake for Afghanistan than South Africa, who have already made the semi-finals alongside India and Australia. With eight points each, Afghanistan are placed sixth. Irrespective of the result on Friday, Afghanistan have earned tremendous respect with their mature play in the tournament, having racked up four wins from eight games.

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Self-belief is key

They now have the belief to beat the best in the business on any given day. After humbling England and Pakistan, the Hasmatullah Shahidi-led side was on the cusp of a famous win over five-time champions Australia before Glenn Maxwell came up with a superhuman knock. The improbable defeat left Afghans heartbroken and they now need to pick themselves up to give their best shot at a semi-final berth.

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Batting first, South Africa have been the best batting unit in the tournament. Therefore, Shahidi will be hoping to win the toss, put runs on the board and choke South Africa in their chase. While Quinton de Kock has piled on the runs in his swansong, South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma has not led from the front at the top of the order. Bavuma missed two games due to illness and Reeza Hendricks grabbed his opportunity with both hands.

Dropping the skipper in the middle of the tournament is highly unlikely, but Bavuma must be feeling the pressure. Before the semi-finals, the Afghanistan game is an ideal opportunity for him to get back amongst the runs.

Miller eyes big runs

David Miller is among the top finishers in the game, but is yet to peak in the World Cup. The southpaw will be looking to get into the groove before the knock-out stage. Left-arm pacer Marco Jansen has been a valuable addition to the side, but needs to improve on his economy rate. Left-spinner Keshav Maharaj has been their go to bowl in the middle overs.

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