WORLD CUP 2019
Ready reckoner: South Africa
Why should you support them?
South Africa's story in the World Cup is cricket's ultimate Shakespearan tragedy. In 1992, in 1999, in 2003 and in 2007, they had every reason why they shouldn't have been knocked out when they were, and yet they found themselves in situations and put themselves in one that would keep them away from cricket's ultimate trophy. This would be the first time since 1996 that they would be coming to a World Cup without being one of the favourites for the title, and also possibly the last time a fine generation of cricketers - Dale Steyn, Faf du Plessis, Imran Tahir, Hashim Amla and JP Duminy - would represent them at the World Cup.
So what's their gameplan?
They have an experienced opening duo, an in-form middle order, some fine finishers and a battery of all-rounders, but it is their bowling attack that would have to lead the charge for them. In Dale Steyn, Kagiso Rabada and Lungisani Ngidi, they have arguably the best pace attack, to go with unarguably the best spinner in limited overs cricket currently - Imran Tahir. Andile Phehlukwayo may not threaten the opposition with his pace, but his canny variations have made him an effective and a reliable 10-over option. In a tournament where 300-plus scores are expected to be chased down, the bowling could well be the difference for South Africa, and skipper du Plessis realises that.
Which player should you get excited about?
Imran Tahir. The 40-year old leggie maybe playing his last tournament but he is coming into the World Cup having finished as the highest wicket-taker in the recently-concluded Indian Premier
