Lungi Ndigi, Hashim Amla and Faf du Plessis have been identified as three key players for the Proteas as they face England at the Oval on Thursday, writes KHALID MOHIDIN.

Head-to-head: Du Plessis vs Morgan

CWC ’19 opener: 3 key England players

1. Lungi Ngidi

A lot of the talk leading up to the World Cup has been about the Proteas’ bowling attack. But the pressure won’t be on the Proteas’ star player Kagiso Rabada. The true pressure will be on Ngidi, who will likely open the bowling, and will have a key role to play in their lineup in the absence of Dale Steyn. The tall, bulky speedster has been effective at striking early so far in his career, which will be needed from him come Thursday. The Proteas need to elicit a top-order collapse as soon as possible to put the pressure on the hosts.

2. Hashim Amla

Undoubtedly the most experienced batsman in the side and the most lethal South African in England conditions, Amla’s slick wrist movements allow him to manipulate swing and spin a lot better than others. His partnership with Quinton de Kock will be key. In the warm-ups one aspect has changed drastically compared to his terrible time in the CSA T20 challenge. Amla has reverted to the stance and technique that has made him so successful over the years. He stands wider outside leg stump and steps in towards middle stump to give himself more time to read and play the delivery.

3. Faf du Plessis

Not only will he be important with the bat, but Du Plessis’ captaincy will be crucial. With Steyn out injured, he will need to marshal his bowlers and read the situation of the game. When to bring on Imran Tahir, in particular, will be vital, as well as who will hold up the other end while the 40-year-old lets his googlies fly.

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