As each Indian Premier League (IPL) match unfolds, the selection battle for the upcoming World Cup intensifies. Every run scored—or not scored—along with every wicket taken—or missed—impacts a player’s chance of securing a place in the national team. We recently reviewed South Africa’s potential candidates for the opening batting positions at the World Cup. Today, we turn our focus to the crucial number three position.
The third batting position is particularly pivotal, given its balance of needing rapid scoring typical of Twenty20 (T20) cricket and the ability to stabilize the innings. This position has drawn considerable interest, with several players vying for a spot. Among them is the team captain, whose role in this position is subject to scrutiny. Historical precedents show the risks involved in dropping a captain during a World Cup, though our captain’s current form does not demand such drastic measures.
Let’s consider some of the main contenders for this position:
- Aiden Markram Markram, the team’s captain, has proven his ability to lead and perform under pressure, exemplified by his pivotal role in his team retaining the SA20 title. He ranked 12th in run scoring during the tournament, accumulating 261 runs at a strike rate of 138. Despite a slightly underwhelming performance in the IPL by his standards, Markram remains a valuable all-rounder, contributing both with bat and ball.
- Rassie van der Dussen Van der Dussen’s prowess was on full display during the SA20, where he finished as the sixth-highest run scorer. However, his form dipped in the subsequent CSA T20 Challenge, where he managed 178 runs across eight innings, albeit at a decent strike rate. Despite his ability to hit big, his struggle with rotating the strike in international matches has been a point of concern.
- Faf du Plessis Du Plessis, a former captain, remains a contentious selection choice. Despite a faltering start in the SA20, he regained form towards the tournament’s end. His performances in the IPL mirrored this pattern, with a slow start followed by stronger showings in later games, which might enhance his case for inclusion. His experience and recent form could make him a suitable candidate for either the number three position or the opener.
- Rilee Rossouw Rossouw faces the most significant challenges among the candidates, given his recent string of low scores in both the SA20 and the Pakistan Super League (PSL). With a track record that includes impressive performances in previous years, he would need a dramatic return to form to be considered a serious contender for the World Cup squad.
As the World Cup approaches, the debate over who should secure a spot in the team intensifies, influenced by performances in ongoing competitions. The decision-making process, currently under discussion by Cricket South Africa (CSA), might see the establishment of a selection panel to formalize these choices.
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