The stage is set for an exciting 1st T20I between South Africa (SA) and Pakistan (PAK) on December 10, 2024, at Kingsmead, Durban. Both teams have a strong lineup and are looking to make a strong start in the T20I series. If you’re a fantasy cricket enthusiast, this blog will help you make informed decisions for your Dream11 team by providing key match details, pitch analysis, team news, head-to-head stats, and the best picks for the game.
SA vs PAK Match Details
- Match: South Africa vs Pakistan 1st T20I, Pakistan Tour of South Africa 2024
- Venue: SuperSport Park, Centurion
- Date & Time: December 13, 2024, 09:30 PM IST
- Live Streaming: Jiocinema App and Sports18 Network
The match will be broadcast live, so make sure to tune in to watch the action unfold. If you’re in the fantasy cricket world, don’t forget to make your selections carefully based on the latest updates and pitch conditions.
SA vs PAK Pitch Report of Kingsmead, Durban
Kingsmead, Durban, is known for its pace and bounce, offering a fairly competitive wicket for both batters and bowlers. The pitch tends to support fast bowlers, especially during the early stages of the match. However, spinners can also come into play later on, as the wicket slows down with time.
Here are some key stats to keep in mind when making your Dream11 selections:
- Total Matches Played: 23
- Matches won batting first: 12
- Matches won bowling first: 9
- Average 1st innings score: 155
- Average 2nd innings score: 135
The conditions seem favorable for pacers, especially during the first innings, with the batting side needing to adapt quickly to the early challenges. In your Dream11 team, it would be wise to choose a balance of pace bowlers and top-order batsmen who can build partnerships and capitalize on the conditions.
SA vs PAK Head-to-Head
South Africa and Pakistan have met each other multiple times in T20Is, and their head-to-head record is closely contested:
- South Africa Wins: 10
- Pakistan Wins: 12
While Pakistan leads the head-to-head, South Africa has been showing strong performances lately, making this series an exciting one. Fantasy cricket players should look closely at player form and past performances when selecting their teams.
South Africa vs Pakistan Recent Form
South Africa: W, W, L, L, W
South Africa has been on a roller-coaster ride in recent matches, with some excellent wins and a few losses. Their key players like Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, and Anrich Nortje have shown strong form, making them key picks for your Dream11 team.
Pakistan: L, W, W, W, W
Pakistan comes into this match with a solid recent form, winning four out of their last five matches. Players like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi have been in terrific form, and their inclusion in your Dream11 team could prove valuable.
South Africa Probable Playing XI
- Reeza Hendricks
- Ryan Rickelton
- Rassie van der Dussen
- Heinrich Klaasen (C & WK)
- David Miller
- Patrick Kruger
- A Simelane
- George Linde
- Tabraiz Shamsi
- Anrich Nortje
- Ottneil Baartman
South Africa’s Key Players: Heinrich Klaasen (captain and wicketkeeper), Anrich Nortje (pace bowler), David Miller (finisher), and Tabraiz Shamsi (spinner) will be crucial for South Africa in this game.
Pakistan Probable Playing XI
- Saim Ayub
- Mohammad Rizwan (C & WK)
- Babar Azam
- Usman Khan
- Salman Ali Agha
- Tayyab Tahir
- Jahandad Khan/Abrar Ahmed
- Abbas Afridi
- Shaheen Afridi
- Haris Rauf
- Sufiyan Muqeem
Pakistan’s Key Players: Babar Azam (top-order batsman), Mohammad Rizwan (captain and wicketkeeper), Shaheen Afridi (left-arm pacer), and Haris Rauf (pace bowler) are expected to be instrumental for Pakistan.
SA vs PAK Dream11 Prediction
Based on the latest information, here’s our Dream11 prediction for the SA vs PAK 1st T20I:
- Captain: Babar Azam (Pakistan) – As the captain and one of the best T20 batsmen, Babar Azam is a solid choice for captain. He has been in superb form recently and is expected to anchor Pakistan’s innings.
- Vice-Captain: Heinrich Klaasen (South Africa) – Klaasen is in great form, both as a batsman and a wicketkeeper. He can contribute in multiple ways and is a valuable pick.
Top Picks for SA vs PAK Dream11 Team
- Batsmen:
- Babar Azam (Pakistan): One of the best T20 players in the world, Babar is a must-have in your team.
- Reeza Hendricks (South Africa): A consistent performer at the top of the order, Hendricks is an excellent choice for your Dream11 team.
- David Miller (South Africa): A match-winner in the middle order, Miller’s ability to finish games makes him a strong candidate for your team.
- All-rounders:
- George Linde (South Africa): Linde can contribute with both bat and ball, making him a valuable fantasy pick.
- Salman Ali Agha (Pakistan): Agha’s all-round capabilities make him a strong pick, especially in conditions that favor both bat and ball.
- Bowlers:
- Shaheen Afridi (Pakistan): One of the best fast bowlers in T20 cricket, Afridi is known for his ability to pick up early wickets.
- Anrich Nortje (South Africa): A pace bowler with raw pace, Nortje is expected to make an impact with the ball.
- Tabraiz Shamsi (South Africa): The left-arm wrist-spinner has been a key player for South Africa and can turn the game around in the middle overs.
- Wicketkeeper:
- Mohammad Rizwan (Pakistan): As a wicketkeeper and top-order batsman, Rizwan is a reliable pick for your fantasy team.
Fantasy Cricket Tips for Dream11 Team
- Stay Updated with Latest News: Ensure you check for any last-minute injury or playing XI updates before finalizing your team.
- Balance Your Team: Make sure you have a good mix of batsmen, bowlers, and all-rounders. In T20Is, it’s important to have players who can contribute in all departments.
- Captain and Vice-Captain Selection: The captain and vice-captain play a key role in boosting your fantasy points. Choose players who are in form and are expected to play a big role in the match.
- Pick Players Based on Conditions: Kingsmead favors fast bowlers, so be sure to include some top pacers in your team, like Shaheen Afridi and Anrich Nortje.
SA vs PAK Captain and Vice-Captain Picks
- Captain Picks:
- Babar Azam (Pakistan) – As a top-order batsman, Babar is expected to play a pivotal role.
- Heinrich Klaasen (South Africa) – A consistent performer, Klaasen’s all-around abilities make him an ideal choice for captain.
- Vice-Captain Picks:
- David Miller (South Africa) – As a finisher, Miller has the potential to score big in the death overs.
- Shaheen Afridi (Pakistan) – A wicket-taking pacer who can turn the match in Pakistan’s favor.
Conclusion
The 1st T20I between South Africa and Pakistan is set to be an exciting contest, with both teams boasting strong squads. For your Dream11 team, make sure to keep an eye on the pitch conditions, team news, and player form. With the right picks, you can maximize your chances of winning. Whether you favor the attacking style of Pakistan or the all-round depth of South Africa, this match promises to deliver plenty of fantasy cricket opportunities.