ICC Champions Trophy 2017, South Africa vs Sri Lanka: 5 players to watch out for

Modified Jun 02, 2017 18:40 IST

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - MAY 26: AB De Villiers of South Africa in action during a South Africa nets session at Ageas Bowl on May 26, 2017 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Ben Hoskins/Getty Images) — AB de Villiers will hope for a winning start when South Africa take on Sri Lanka in their first match

#2 Faf du Plessis

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - MAY 27: South Africa batsman Faf du Plessis hits a boundary during the 2nd Royal London One Day International between England and South Africa at The Ageas Bowl on May 27, 2017 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) — Du Plessis is the leading run-scorer this year in ODIs

The South African Test skipper is the leading run-scorer of 2017 in ODIs thus far with 677 runs in 13 games. The solid, watchful Du Plessis was often criticised for getting stuck at the crease, especially in the shorter formats, but has turned all that around with some scintillating performances this year.

He smashed a career-best 185 against the Lankans in the ODI series in January apart from a 105 in the same series. Proteas will be banking on the 32-year-old to score some runs especially after a rather quiet series against England. Having a good record against the sub-continent side would also give him some confidence going into the game.