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The third and final World Cup game comes to Canberra on Tuesday. Will an undefeated Ireland be able to compete with one of the favourites for the tournament in South Africa? Join The Roar for live scores and commentary from 2.30pm AEDT
Both sides from Pool B have played and beaten the West Indies. Ireland has also recorded a win against the UAE. South Africa bounced back after a loss to India and also has a win over Zimbabwe coming into this match.
AB De Villiers or South Africa as they are known is fast becoming a one man band. An incredible knock against the Windies just confirmed his status as the best cricketer in the world. AB should be able to take a back seat against Ireland and try to solicit some support from his team mates but it is hard to see the Proteas going all the way without mercurial performances from their Captain.
Injuries forced a couple changes to their line up with both Philander and Duminy on the sidelines. How long for is the question. Kyle Abbott came into the attack and did enough to suggest he should be there permanently. He combined with the leg spin of Imran Tahir to provide a good bowling performance in their last match. Tahir has been the leading wicket taker in the last twelve months for South Africa in limited overs cricket.
De Villiers will be pushing up David Miller and Faf Du Plessis as the next rung of batsmen to take charge in the World Cup.
This game will be a big test for Ireland. They don’t look to have the fire power in their attack. Spin seems to be their best option with Dockrell and Stirling bowling some good spells first up. McBrine was impressive against the West Indies but was surprisingly left out for the second game. Perhaps he will come back in here and they can play to their strengths.
Ireland relies on their experience batting to chase down targets. Ed Joyce and Niall O’Brien have started well and combine with all rounder Stirling at the top. However it is hard to see them keeping South Africa to a total they can chase.
The two teams have met twice previously in World Cup cricket with the Proteas being undefeated. This trend should continue in Canberra.
Manuka Oval will offer up a very flat wicket conducive to big scores and South Africa coming off 400 last week could get anything here.
Prediction: South Africa easily. The betting is just about right.
Can a South African batsman other than AB De Villiers win a game for the Proteas and can Ireland provide more than just pesky opposition to one of the big teams of the World Cup.
Join The Roar Tuesday at 2:30pm for live score updates and debate in our live blog.
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