Much like the test series the ODI series has been one-sided, which in itself is disappointing especially as the T20 games were so even. It’s been worse though because of the manner of the defeats. Sure there was some entertainment along the way, but the wallopings are doing nothing for the crowds or for South Africa’s World Cup preparations.
We’re all hoping for something a bit more even in Port Elizabeth where South Africa have rescheduled in a move that could achieve the levelling effect.
The Last Time These Two Met
The West Indies were feeble in defeat in game three. Already 2-0 down the West Indies failed to build on winning the toss and crumbled for just 122. Marlon Samuels top scored with just 26, in an inept display of batting that is sure to worry West Indies fans. Vernon Philander and Imran Tahir took four wickets and three wickets apiece to easily seal the series in South Africa’s favour. Philander was man of the match after removing Dwayne Smith and Chris Gaye within the first four overs. The burst set the tone for a East London walkover that was finished by Hashim Amla (61*) and Faf du Plessis (51*).
The Teams
South Africa (likely): 1 Rilee Rossouw, 2 Morne van Wyk (wk), 3 Faf du Plessis, 4 AB de Villiers (capt), 5 David Miller, 6 JP Duminy, 7 Farhaan Behardien, 8 Wayne Parnell, 9 Kyle Abbott, 10 Morne Morkel, 11 Imran Tahir
South Africa have already determined that Hashim Amla and Dale Steyn will rest in Port Elizabeth. There exclusions open up opportunities for Morne van Wye and Kyle Abbott. Regardless of the changes South Africa are still heavy favourites.
West Indies (likely): 1 Dwayne Smith, 2 Chris Gayle, 3 Leon Johnson, 4 Marlon Samuels, 5 Denesh Ramdin (wk), 6 Jonathan Carter, 7 Andre Russell, 8 Carlos Brathwaite, 9 Jason Holder (capt), 10 Jerome Taylor, 11 Sulieman Benn
Many teams ask players who have performed badly in any given match to fix it at the next opportunity. We suspect the West Indies will allow their demoralised players to atone.
The Key Players
AB de Villiers – He’s had fun in the series but he hasn’t really been tested when under the pump. 40 balls is not necessarily a guide as to how well he’s playing, so it will be interesting to see how he responds if his side loses early wickets. That might happen too without the rock Amla to see off the new ball.
Leon Johnson – Has only had a small amount of time to familiarise himself with a new role at number three in a sinking ship, but we’re hoping Johnson can rise tot the challenge. The series need it. The series needs the runs he scored in the third test.
The Odds*
South Africa – $1.26
West Indies – $3.85
*Courtesy of Unibet.
The Prediction
All good things must come to an end. How about putting $5 on West Indies to triumph at Port Elizabeth. de Villiers for another hundred too.
Betfair:
Bet on Henrik Stenson to become the BMW PGA Championship Winner.
Paddypower:
Back Australia to take the Ashes home with them.
Betway:
Back Rafael Nadal to become the Mens French Open Winner.
Coral:
Back One For Arthur to win the Grand National.
Bet365:
Back Mexico to win the Confederations Cup.
