South Africa hold too many aces for Bangladesh

If the warm-up match against South Africa `A' at Soweto was anything to go by, then Bangladesh is going to have plenty of problems against the South African bowling attack. The first of three Standard Bank One-Day Internationals kicks off at Potchefstroom on Thursday 3 September 2002.

Bangladesh struggled against the pace and lift from the South African "A" bowlers and should find it even more difficult on the fast Potchefstroom pitch. Shaun Pollock, a master in bowling at a length, and Jacques Kallis, who gets lift and swing out of most pitches, may have a field day.

Add to that the experience of Allan Donald, the improving Lance Klusener, Makhaya Ntini and Mfuneko Ngam, whoever plays, then Bangladesh batsmen are in for a torrid time and a total of anything near 200 will be most surprising.

Hannan Sarkar and Tushar Imran both good players who get into line well might cause the South Africans bowlers some irritation. Sanwar Hossain, who looks to be better suited to the five-day version, will not give his wicket away cheaply.

It is expected that South Africa will go with a full pace attack after Bangladesh showed that they are quite capable of handling medium pace and are more than competent at playing any form of spin.

The South African top order may find early opposition from the opening Bangladesh attack. Left hander Manjural Islam and Tapash Baisya make up for their lack in pace with consistent line and length. The leg spinner, Alok Kapali, who does not turn the ball much, does vary his flight and line very well. From what has been seen, Bangladesh will face an uphill battle with the remaining bowlers.

Without being overconfident, Bangladesh should not create too many headaches for South African. They are in the country to learn about the South African conditions and pick up as much experience as they can before the World Cup early in 2003.

For South Africa it will be a series that they will use as preparations for Sri Lanka and Pakistan who are visiting South Africa later in the year. It will be a time to iron out any problems and build towards the ultimate goal of winning the World Cup at home.