Buoyed by a commanding victory in the series opener, the Indian cricket team will step onto the field in Raipur with a clear objective: to seal the three-match ODI series against South Africa on Wednesday. The hosts carry significant momentum from their win in Ranchi, a match defined by a vintage century from Virat Kohli.
Ranchi Triumph Sets the Stage for Raipur
The first ODI saw a dominant Indian performance. Virat Kohli's masterful 113-run knock at the hallowed ground of Ranchi, often associated with MS Dhoni's legacy, was the centerpiece of India's win. However, it was ably supported by crucial half-centuries from stand-in skipper KL Rahul and opener Rohit Sharma, showcasing a balanced batting effort. With confidence high, the Indian think-tank is likely to maintain a winning formula and field an unchanged playing eleven for the crucial second encounter.
Proteas Look to Bounce Back with Bavuma's Return
South Africa, on the other hand, are expected to ring in a few changes as they fight to keep the series alive. Their captain, Temba Bavuma, is set to return to the playing XI after being rested for the first game. Bavuma will most likely take the place of Ryan Rickelton in the lineup. The batting order may also see a reshuffle, with the experienced Quinton de Kock anticipated to open the innings.
In the bowling department, spinner Keshav Maharaj could come in for Prenelan Subrayen, who proved expensive during the previous match. These adjustments indicate the visitors' intent to present a stiffer challenge to the in-form Indian side.
How and Where to Watch the Action
Cricket fans across India can catch all the live action from the IND vs SA 2nd ODI starting at 1:30 PM IST on Wednesday. The match will be telecast live and free on DD Sports. Subscribers can also tune in via the Star Sports network of channels.
For digital viewers, the live streaming of the India vs South Africa ODI will be available on the JioCinema app and website, ensuring fans don't miss a single ball.
Probable Playing Elevens for the Crucial Clash
South Africa's likely XI: Quinton de Kock (WK), Aiden Markram, Temba Bavuma (C), Matthew Breetzke, Tony de Zorzi, Dewald Brevis, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj, Nandre Burger, Ottneil Baartman.
India's likely XI: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Washington Sundar, KL Rahul (C & WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna.
With the series on the line, the stage is set for an enthralling contest at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur. India will rely on their top-order firepower and bowling discipline to wrap up the series, while South Africa will hope their revamped lineup can level the terms and force a decider.
