Bangladesh Choose to Bat First Against South Africa in Visakhapatnam

Bangladesh won the toss under cloudy skies in Visakhapatnam and decided to bat first, looking to revive their World Cup journey after back-to-back defeats to England and New Zealand. 

It was a bold choice from captain Nigar Sultana, who trusted her side to deliver with the bat on a pitch expected to assist spinners later in the game. She believes a competitive total on the board could give her bowlers a real opportunity to apply pressure in the 2nd innings.

South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt had no issue chasing, confident that the evening dew might make batting easier under lights. Her side enters this contest with momentum after a disappointing loss to England in their opener, followed by strong wins against New Zealand and India. 

A third straight victory tonight would not only strengthen their semi-final chances but also reinforce their reputation as one of the most balanced units in the tournament.

“It was an amazing game of cricket,” Wolvaardt said, recalling their thrilling three-wicket win over India. “The group was on a big high after that result, but we’ve spent the last couple of days resetting and refocusing for what lies ahead.”

Both teams made two changes from their previous matches. South Africa rested Sune Luus as a precaution due to a hip flexor strain, bringing in Annerie Dercksen to bolster the middle order. At the same time, Masabata Klaas returned to the lineup in place of Ayabonga Khaka. For Bangladesh, Fargana Hoque and Ritu Moni were brought in for Nishita Akter and Sumaiya Akter to strengthen their batting and bowling balance.

The game promises to be crucial for both sides. Bangladesh are desperate for a breakthrough after two defeats, while South Africa are eyeing a top-four spot. 

With conditions favoring spin and dew likely to play a role later, both captains know that key moments under pressure could decide the outcome.

Bangladesh XI: 

1 Rubya Haider, 2 Fargana Hoque, 3 Sharmin Akhter, 4 Nigar Sultana (capt & wk), 5 Sobhana Mostary, 6 Shorna Akter, 7 Fahima Khatun, 8 Nahida Akter, 9 Rabeya Khan, 10 Marufa Akter, 11 Ritu Moni

South Africa XI: 

1 Laura Wolvaardt (capt), 2 Tazmin Brits, 3 Anneke Bosch, 4 Annerie Dercksen, 5 Marizanne Kapp, 6 Sinalo Jafta (wk), 7 Chloe Tryon, 8 Nadine de Klerk, 9 Tumi Sekhukhune, 10 Masabata Klaas, 11 Nonkululeko Mlaba