Raipur: As India and South Africa gear up for the crucial second ODI at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Stadium on Wednesday, the hosts might be leading 1-0, but four lesser-known Proteas players are quietly plotting a stunning comeback.
Towering left-arm pacer Marco Jansen (2.08 m) remains the biggest headache. With raw pace, a vicious bounce, and the ability to swing the new ball both ways, he can dismantle India’s top order on a pitch expected to offer early help.
Opening batsman Matthew Breetzke, fresh from a record-breaking domestic season, has already shown sparks of brilliance. His fearless strokeplay against spin could target India’s middle overs.
Then comes all-rounder Corbin Bosch – son of former Proteas bowler Tertius Bosch – who bowls sharp seam-up deliveries and clears ropes with ease. His double threat makes him a perfect finisher in death overs.
Lastly, wrist-spinner Nqabayomzi Peter, with his sharp googlies and big turn, is being tipped as the surprise package on a dry Raipur track that traditionally assists spinners.
South Africa’s stand-in skipper Aiden Markram admitted, “These boys are hungry. One good game and they can change the series.” With the visitors desperate to stay alive, India’s star-studded line-up will need to be wary of these four emerging Proteas ready to announce themselves on the big stage.