We’re gearing up for the exciting 4th ODI clash between South Africa and India at the Wanderers, Johannesburg, on Saturday 10 February.
The Proteas’ hopes of clinching the six-match ODI series have taken a hit after another strong performance by Virat Kohli and his team left Ottis Gibson’s side on the back foot.
With AB de Villiers possibly returning to the field, can South Africa turn the tide? Or will Kohli’s stellar wrist-spinners continue to dominate and secure victory for India? Let’s dive into the details:
South Africa vs India | Saturday 10 February | The Wanderers, Johannesburg | 13:30
Winning Odds
South Africa: 31/20
Tie: 35/1
India: 52/100
Place your bets and join the excitement as the cricket action unfolds!
South Africa
The South African ODI side finds itself at a crossroads. The wrist-spin attack of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav has repeatedly dismantled the Proteas’ middle and lower order this series, exposing some fragilities.
Much depends on whether AB de Villiers will don the Proteas pink kit for the match. Although named in the squad for the past three ODIs, his availability for the Wanderers clash will be confirmed only on Friday.
Looking at team selection, David Miller’s position seems under threat given his struggles against spin. Khaya Zondo has performed decently but his slow scoring rate might see Farhaan Behardien get a look-in.
A silver lining for South Africa is their record in the pink kit — they’ve never lost when sporting it. Fans will fondly remember de Villiers’ stunning century against the West Indies in this kit back in 2015.
India
India is cruising confidently through this series with a dominant 3-0 lead. Kohli is in sublime form, devastating bowling attacks, while Yadav and Chahal’s spin duo have taken the lion’s share of South African wickets this series.
Beyond the spinners, Kohli’s batting brilliance is undeniable, amassing 318 runs across three matches and looking untouchable.
In the recent match, Kohli was fortunately reprieved after an LBW was overturned following an appeal, allowing him to notch an unbeaten 160.
Team-wise, only Rohit Sharma might be under some scrutiny due to current form, although it appears unlikely he will be dropped anytime soon, especially given the South African bowling struggles.
Verdict: India 52/100
Backing India looks like the smart move. They’ve shown commanding dominance and are tipped to notch their fourth straight win at the Wanderers come Saturday.
