We are all set for the first piece of ODI action in the new season with this exciting tri-series in the Carribean islands featuring hosts West Indies, Australia and South Africa. The interesting feature about this series is that all these games will be played under the lights. South Africa are up against the Windies in the first game of the tournament and both sides have some comeback kings. Kieron Pollard and Sunil Narine return to the national setup after a long time and Wayne Parnell has been picked by the Proteas. So how do we lineup then for the first game in fantasy? Here’s an analysis:
Batsmen:
South Africa are unlikely to pick Faf du Plessis for the first game since he has just recovered from the finger injury he sustained during the IPL. He is also the costliest batsman on show as he is valued at 8500 rupees, so even if he plays it is advisable to see how he fares in the first game before picking him in the future. Hashim Amla’s consistency makes him a certain pick though and he will cost you 7500 rupees.
Rilee Rossouw could prove to be a bargain buy as he costs only 5500 rupees. He will likely bat at 3 or 4 and can also clear the boundary at will. If the Proteas opt for Behardien instead of Rossouw, then you can go for the all-rounder as well as he can chip in with the ball.
From the Windies point of view, Darren Bravo is valued quite high at 8000 rupees which could prove to be a disaster if he fails. Marlon Samuels on the other hand is coming from a well-deserved break after starring in the T20 World Cup final and the users can include him in their side instead of Bravo as you can also save up to 1000 rupees for other departments.
Wicket-keeper batsman:
Quinton de Kock or AB de Villiers? You can definitely rule out Denesh Ramdin since you already have a huge dilemma in your hands. If you are looking to save your money, go for de Kock but de Villiers has an impeccable record against the West Indies and that should work in his favour. Pick him and watch him dance to the calypso tunes on the opening night.
All-rounder:
This is another department where the user will have to take a call which could make or break the fantasy team. Carlos Brathwaite has been in good form but the same applies to Chris Morris as well. Perhaps, you should tilt in favour of the South African since he also did well in ODI cricket in his side’s previous assignment against England.
Morris is more than just handy with the bat and with the ball he is exceptional at the death. At the moment, it is advisable to pick South African cricketers more in your team since they will start as favourites. It is better to watch how the Windies gel together in the 50-over format before gambling on their players.
Bowlers:
Irrespective of the opposition and irrespective of the money, Sunil Narine is a must-have. He is coming back after a long time in national colours and he will be eager to perform. Considering the pitches will offer turn, you can also go for a South African spinner. We could see Tabraiz Shamsi make his debut in this series but the Proteas might opt to use Aaron Phangiso for now and hence you can give him the nod.
Imran Tahir is another option but he will cost a lot. In order to pick him, you either have to drop Narine or make a sacrifice in the batting department to fund this move. Users will also be delighted to see that Kagiso Rabada has been valued only at 5000 rupees. He has been stellar for South Africa recently and could end up with a bagful of wickets again.
Wayne Parnell is another option the users can consider as he is likely to feature in the XI after his recent impressive performances in domestic cricket in limited overs cricket. Morne Morkel costs the same as Parnell but the latter’s batting abilities should get the nod.
Our ideal team: Hashim Amla, Marlon Samuels, AB de Villiers, Rilee Rossouw, Chris Morris, Sunil Narine, Wayne Parnell, Kagiso Rabada and Aaron Phangiso.
DISCLAIMER: The article just contains suggestions and Sportskeeda are not responsible or liable for the outcome.
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