Cricket

World Cup 2023: Steve Smith’s wicket will be the most important one in SA vs AUS clash, says AB de Villiers

Former South African skipper AB de Villiers reckons Steve Smith’s wicket will be the most important one for the Proteas in their second World Cup 2023 match against Australia, which will be played at Lucknow on Thursday. Smith scored 46 runs in the opening clash against India at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai on Sunday.

The talisman was dismissed by a peach of a delivery from Ravindra Jadeja. In fact, it is always a difficult task to get rid of Smith when he has got settled at the crease but Jadeja was able to bamboozle the batter.

Smith recently scored 115 runs in a three-match ODI series against India and he is once again going to hold the key for Australia in a big clash against the Proteas.

In the 21 matches he has played against the Proteas, Smith has scored 684 runs at an average of over 40, including two centuries.

“The Aussies will be low on confidence after defeat to India, but a wounded Australia team is very dangerous. It will be crucial to pick up some early wickets to keep that pressure on, something we have not done too well recently.”

“It might sound obvious, but Steve Smith’s wicket will be the most important. He holds everything together for Australia and if we can get him out early, I am confident we can get the job done,” wrote De Villiers on ICC website.

The former RCB batter reckons South Africa will have to deliver the goods with the ball in the absence of gun fast bowler Anrich Nortje and wants Kagiso Rabada to lead the pack.

“All the focus has been on the batters, but this is a huge test for the bowling attack if South Africa want to be seen as real contenders, especially without Anrich Nortje – no one knows how to get it done at World Cups like Australia.”

“The loss of Nortje to injury is a real blow and means there is extra pressure on Kagiso Rabada to lead the attack. I spoke to him last week and he is determined to step up to the plate and lead by example as one of the best bowlers in the world.”

South Africa won their opening match against Sri Lanka by a huge margin of 102 runs and they would aim to continue the winning impetus.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

Rohit Sharma opens up on his T20I retirement, says inner consciousness helped in his decision

India’s veteran Rohit Sharma recently called time on his Test career however he will continue… Read More

May 12, 2025

Real Madrid’s Carlo Ancelotti praises expected replacement Xabi Alonso

Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti has showered praise on Xabi Alonso, who is expected… Read More

May 12, 2025

Sanjay Bangar questions Rishabh Pant’s white-ball numbers amid poor form in IPL 2025

Former Indian batting coach Sanjay Bangar has questioned Rishabh Pant’s credentials in the limited-over formats.… Read More

May 12, 2025

Italian Open 2025: Jannik Sinner beats Mariano Navone on return after ban

Jannik Sinner was able to hit the ground running as he bested Mariano Navone by… Read More

May 12, 2025

Young Shuttlers Ayush Shetty, Unnati Hooda Storm Into Taipei Open Quarterfinals

India's emerging badminton stars Ayush Shetty and Unnati Hooda continued their impressive runs at the… Read More

May 9, 2025

IPL 2025 Faces Suspension Amid Escalating India-Pakistan Tensions

The 2025 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is on the brink of suspension… Read More

May 9, 2025