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NEW DELHI: The explosive batting might of the West Indies cricket team will be put under serious examination when they meet an equally unbeaten South Africa national cricket team in a high stakes Super 8 encounter of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup on Thursday, with both sides eyeing a firmer grip on a semifinal berth.

South Africa head into the clash on the back of a dominant 76 run victory over India in Ahmedabad, while the West Indies flexed their batting muscle with a 107-run demolition of Zimbabwe in Mumbai.

T20 World Cup: India aim for strong comeback after South Africa hammering

The Caribbean lineup, loaded with clean strikers, has repeatedly shown it can change the course of a match in just a few overs.

This time, however, they face a disciplined and well-rounded South African bowling attack that dismantled India earlier this week.

Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi combined effectively, using pace changes and sharp variations to trouble even the most accomplished batters in the competition.

The Proteas batting unit has also delivered when required. David Miller once again underlined his reputation as a crisis man, steering South Africa out of trouble after early blows in the powerplay against India.

Key match-ups

The fixture sets up some fascinating individual contests. Shimron Hetmyer’s attacking approach against Rabada’s pace and bounce could shape the early momentum, while Rovman Powell’s power against spin will be tested by Maharaj’s control and subtle changes in pace.

Miller’s battle with left arm spinner Akeal Hosein and Jansen’s steep bounce against Brandon King at the top are other duels that could tilt the balance.

Afternoon factor

Unlike the earlier night fixtures in Ahmedabad, this afternoon game may unfold differently. With no dew expected, conditions should remain consistent across both innings, minimizing the toss factor.

The pitch could be a touch drier, potentially aiding spinners sooner, while the afternoon heat may challenge players’ stamina and sharpness in the field. Batters might also need to adjust if the surface slows as the match progresses.

Settled Proteas in Ahmedabad

Having featured frequently at the Narendra Modi Stadium, South Africa appear comfortable in Ahmedabad. The surface has offered early bounce along with some grip for spinners under lights, and the Proteas have adapted smartly. Their familiarity with local conditions could prove decisive in a tight contest.

Implications for India

A West Indies win could significantly impact India national cricket team. It would push the Caribbean side closer to a semifinal spot and leave South Africa with Zimbabwe in their final Super 8 outing.

In that case, India would have to defeat both West Indies and Zimbabwe, and by healthy margins, to remain in contention, making this encounter pivotal to the group’s equation.

Squads:

West Indies: Shai Hope (c), Johnson Charles, Shimron Hetmyer, Brandon King, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Quentin Sampson, Roston Chase, Jason Holder, Romario Shepherd, Matthew Forde, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph, Gudakesh Motie, and Jayden Seales

South Africa: Aiden Markram (captain), Quinton de Kock (wk), Ryan Rickleton, Dewald Brevis, Tristan Stubbs, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Keshav Maharaj, Corbin Bosch, Anrich Nortje, Kwena Maphaka, George Linde, Jason Smith

Match Starts at 3:00pm

(With PTI Inputs)