3 Reasons why South Africa are the dark horses for the World Cup

#1 Strong batting unit on paper

Inconsistent batting performances

One of the major concerns for South Africa in the recent past has been the disappointing batting performances of the team. On paper, they have everything that a good batting line-up requires. It is, however, that all of them have failed to fire in as a team that has hurt their chances of winning crucial games. The form of their most experienced batsman, Hashim Amla remains a huge concern.

The middle order has looked brittle with South Africa in the past choosing to try new combinations in the matches leading before the World Cup. The lack of a settled middle order has only added more to their problems. However, the likes of experienced players like JP Duminy & David Miller back in action after injury will calm a few nerves for the team management.

Team has the power hitters at the back end of the innings like Andile Phehlukwayo who can hit the ball out of the park and provide the cushion of getting those crucial runs at the back-end of the innings.

The dangerous wicket keeper opening batsman Quinton De Kock has been in stupendous form throughout the last season and these are good signs for the team. Faf Du Plessis will be expected to control the innings during the game and play according to the situation of the game.

The sudden retirement of AB De Villiers caused a huge hole to fill in the South African batting line up. He was the pillar of the batting unit and his absence is a huge loss to say the least.

The team has a potent batting line up with the young guns like Aiden Markram and Rassie van der Dussen looking in great nick.

The South African team has got everything right on paper to beat any team in the World Cup. However, it is the uncertainty regarding the form of the players that makes people doubt their chances. Only time will tell whether they can carry the burden on their shoulders.