As the Indian cricket team prepares to face South Africa in the second One Day International in Raipur, all eyes are on the star batters from both sides. Former South African pace legend Dale Steyn has shared his insights, predicting a continuation of the Indian run-fest while highlighting a key Proteas player with a point to prove.
Steyn's Expectations for the Raipur Clash
In a preview released by Star Sports, Dale Steyn expressed his belief that the formidable partnership of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma is far from done. "I think the Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma show will continue," Steyn stated confidently. He shifted focus to the bowling departments, questioning which attack would step up on what has been a batting-friendly pitch. "I am eager to see which fast bowlers and which spinners come out and do something interesting. It has been a batter's paradise so far," he added.
Steyn specifically pointed to South African opener Quinton de Kock, who was dismissed for a duck in the first ODI in Ranchi. "Quinton de Kock didn't score any runs in the first ODI, but I feel like he has a point to prove. He is someone South Africa will lean on to score big for them," the former speedster emphasized.
Series Context and Player Form
The three-match series currently stands with India leading 1-0. The opening game in Ranchi was a high-scoring thriller where India posted a massive 349 for 8. The innings was built on a magnificent century from Virat Kohli (135), supported by crucial knocks from KL Rahul (60) and captain Rohit Sharma (58).
South Africa's chase got off to a disastrous start at 11 for 3, but fighting half-centuries from Matthew Breetzke (72), Marco Jansen (70), and Corbin Bosch (67) brought them close. However, they ultimately fell short by 17 runs, with Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav taking four crucial wickets.
De Kock's Stellar Record and Recent Resurgence
Quinton de Kock's potential comeback is backed by impressive statistics. Since reversing his ODI retirement earlier this year, the left-hander has been in scintillating form:
- He has scored 239 runs in just four matches.
- His average is a staggering 79.66 with a strike rate above 91.
- This run includes one century, two fifties, and a best score of 123 not out.
Furthermore, de Kock has a particularly strong record against India, making him a perennial threat. He has amassed 1,077 runs against India at an average of 51.28, including six centuries and two half-centuries, with a top score of 135.
The Stage is Set in Raipur
The second ODI of the series will be played at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium in Raipur on Wednesday. The match presents a critical opportunity for South Africa to level the series and for India to seal it with a game to spare. With Steyn's predictions setting the narrative, fans can expect a fierce contest where India's batting giants aim to dominate again, and Quinton de Kock will be determined to silence his critics and lead South Africa's charge.
