We take a look at some of the key battles to be expected in the clash between the Proteas and the West Indies at the Rose Bowl on Monday, writes KHALID MOHIDIN.

Predicting: Our experts back SA to win

Predicting: Proteas XI vs West Indies

Chris Gayle vs Kagiso Rabada

The fierce aggression of a hungry Rabada against the big-hitting calm-aggression of Gayle will be an enticing battle to witness. Rabada is key to the Proteas’ revival and has found his rhythm at the perfect time to be at his best in a must-win game for the Proteas. Gayle has yet to fully express himself in the first two games against Pakistan and Australia, and will up for the battle against a fragile Proteas bowling lineup. Their battle will kick start the match in the powerplay when Rabada takes the new ball.

READ: Three key West Indies players 

Quinton de Kock vs Andre Russell

The two had a little tussle during the IPL when Mumbai Indians took on the Kolkata Knight Riders. The Proteas wicketkeeper-batsman took on the West Indian all-rounder in the fourth over of the clash and hit him for two sixes and a four. Russell brushed shoulders with De Kock with a frustrated look on his face. This battle could be reignited come Monday.

READ: De Kock: Russell was probably angry

Russell vs Rabada and Morris at the death

In the 26th match of the IPL which saw the Delhi Capitals take on the Kolkata Knight Riders, ‘Dre’ Russel scored a 21-ball 45. Over two overs (16th and 18th), he hit Rabada for three sixes and one four. Morris eventually dismissed the Windies all-rounder which gave the Capitals the edge in the match. This will be an interesting battle at the death if Russell is still at the crease.

READ: Three key Proteas players 

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