Sri Lanka vs. South Africa: Five players to watch out for

AB de Villiers leaves the pitch after rain stopped play during second ODI at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on July 23, 2013. (Getty Images)

2. AB De Villiers

The South African captain has failed to set the benchmark for his team in this series so far and in the absence of stalwarts like Graeme Smith and Jacques Kallis. The absence of Amla in the last two matches has increased the burden on him but eventually he needs to take greater responsibility.

He should also elevate himself to number three given that JP Duminy has failed to deliver at that critical position. He has the ability to hold ground against Lasith Malinga and he can be settled on the crease by the time the spinners enter the game.

His aptitude for counter-attack can be one possible way South Africa can derail Herath. A captain’s innings will be required in the next match as another loss would mean a morale dampening series defeat.