World Cup 2019: Five best tactical decisions in the first week

#4 Using Imran Tahir against England's openers

England v South Africa - ICC Cricket World Cup 2019

While the contest itself was unmemorable, the opening match of the 2019 World Cup has left cricket fans with two unforgettable memories: Ben Stokes' catch and Imran Tahir's celebration after the second ball of the tournament. The latter was made possible by a daring ploy by the South African captain Faf du Plessis. Facing the most destructive opening partnership in ODI cricket, Faf decided to give the ball to Tahir on a green pitch.

Almost immediately, Faf's move, a reminiscent of Martin Crowe's decision to open the bowling with Dipak Patel in the 1992 World Cup, paid off as the experienced leg-spinner took the wicket of the dangerous Jonny Bairstow and set off on one of his trademark runs. It was a moment of true genius by the South African captain, one that threatened to spoil the hosts' party.

Indeed, England "only" made 60 runs in the first powerplay, a relatively low score for them in home conditions. Unfortunately for Faf and the rest of the Proteas, the rest of that match (and the tournament) has not panned out as they would have liked. After three successive losses, they face elimination from the tournament. \

If the South Africans are to save their World Cup and shed the eternal "chokers" tag, one suspects that Faf will have to be similarly brilliant.