South Africa vs Pakistan 5th ODI Fantasy Preview

At the start of this series, we at Read Scoops would’ve never guessed that Pakistan would’ve been good enough to be 2-2 after four ODIs. Still here we are, all set for the decider today, with both teams having an equal chance at the trophy. In the last game, Pakistan beat South Africa comprehensively, ending their dominance in eight years of the #PinkODI initiative.

For an in-depth understanding of who to have in your fantasy league or Dream11 teams, who to drop, and who to make your captains, keep reading:

Shoaib Malik

Shoaib Malik has gone relatively unseen in this series thus far as the Pakistan top order has been good enough in most cases. However, his experience is vital and now, he is the captain too, with Sarfraz Ahmed getting a 4-match ban. 12, 21, 31 and DNB have been his scores in this series, but that upward trend would entice you to pick him for this all-important decider. Pakistan lost their openers quickly in the last game and if such a thing happens again, Malik will be there to step in and score big.

South Africa vs Pakistan 5th ODI fantasy preview
Credits: Getty Images

Pacers

South Africa is known for its pacy and bouncy wickets, so the pacers are of high importance. Usman Shinwari had a brilliant time in the Big Bash League and then travelled to play for the national side, picking up 4 wickets in the last game. I’d make the big gamble of dropping Shadab Khan for this encounter and picking both of Shaheen Afridi and Shinwari.

As for South Africa, we’re expecting the same trio of Kagiso Rabada, Dale Steyn and Beuran Hendricks to take over fast bowling duties. The fourth bowler spot however, may be in doubt. Wiaan Mulder has been called up for the 5th ODI and he would only slot in place of Andile Phehlukwayo. However, the change looks unlikely as the latter has been in prime form.

Tips:

  • Drop Shadab Khan for a few early wickets with the new ball.
  • Pick Fakhar Zaman even though he has had poor returns thus far.
  • Watch out for Shoaib Malik’s experience in this 5th ODI.
  • Quinton de Kock will score big, but avoid making him your captain. He will be in 90% fantasy teams.
  • Babar Azam scores his season – 49, 12, 69, 41*.

My Fantasy Eleven:

Quinton de Kock, Babar Azam (c), Fakhar Zaman (vc), Shoaib Malik, Reeza Hendricks, Faf du Plessis, Imad Wasim, Andile Phehlukwayo, Usman Shinwari, Kagiso Rabada, Shaheen Afridi.


For more updates on Pakistan’s tour of South Africa, keep reading ReadScoops.com.

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