India vs South Africa Live- World cup 2023

Just nine matches remain on the road to the 2023 World Cup semifinals. As we approach the final stages of this exceptional tournament, the showdown between two formidable teams, India and South Africa, promises to be a thrilling contest. Originally considered a lesser matchup, the trail of victories these two teams have left in their wake suggests that this game could become the highlight of the tournament. Far from inconsequential, both teams are still vying for the top spot on the points table to enter the knockout stage with confidence. India stands undefeated with seven wins from seven games, while South Africa is not far behind, securing victories in all matches except for an upset against the Netherlands.

India and South Africa are set to face off at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata, a venue that was not initially expected to host such a high-stakes clash. South Africa could be India’s toughest test yet, as they were the only team India lost to in the group stage of last year’s T20 World Cup, despite South Africa being ranked lower and delivering unexpected results. Although Team India received the news of Hardik Pandya’s injury ruling him out, they have Mohammed Shami and Suryakumar Yadav as strong reinforcements. Concerns about the sixth-bowling option were addressed by coach Rahul Dravid, who mentioned that Virat Kohli is ready to step in if necessary.

In today’s match, India may rely on Kohli’s batting skills against the formidable South African attack. Kohli has amassed 442 runs in seven innings, ranking third among the leading run-scorers in the World Cup 2023. Achieving his 49th century on his 35th birthday would be a historic feat, putting him ahead of the legendary Sachin Tendulkar. Kohli’s stellar batting record at the Eden Gardens, with an average of 47 in 7 ODIs, makes him even more formidable, especially against South Africa, where he boasts an intimidating average of 61 in 30 ODIs, including three fifties and one century.

South Africa’s team is a force to be reckoned with, led by Temba Bavuma, who has masterfully guided his fast bowlers, including Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Marco Jansen, and Gerald Coetzee, who have collectively taken 48 wickets in this World Cup. Keshav Maharaj has contributed 11 wickets to the team’s impressive bowling unit. Quinton de Kock, with 545 runs and four centuries in the tournament, poses a significant threat. Aiden Markram, Rassie van der Dussen, and Heinrich Klaasen have also made valuable contributions, propelling South Africa into the semifinals.

Adding a layer of history to this match, the 2011 World Cup saw South Africa as the only team that India lost to. For those concerned about the “Law of Averages,” this match may provide some answers. While India still needs to face the Netherlands, tonight’s game carries immense significance, as India is expected to experience a setback at some point in the tournament. Let’s hope it happens in one of the next two matches rather than in the knockout stage.

Key Points for the India vs. South Africa World Cup 2023 match:

• In the 90 ODIs played between the two teams, South Africa holds the edge with 50 wins compared to India’s 37, with three matches ending in no results.
• India has lost three of its last five ODIs to South Africa.
• South Africa was the only team to defeat India in the 2011 World Cup.
• For the first time in his ODI career, Virat Kohli will bat for India on his birthday.