Jason Roy, Jofra Archer and Joe Root are three players who pose significant threats to the Proteas as England prepare to host South Africa at the Oval on Thursday, writes KHALID MOHIDIN.

Jason Roy 

This opener can be devastating on his day and could not have had a better run of form leading up to the World Cup. In the ODI series against Pakistan he accumulated two half-centuries and a blistering 89-ball 114. This form carried over into the warm-up clash against Afghanistan, where he hit an unbeaten 89. When he is hot, he’s hot. But on the flip side, he has a habit of dipping for a few games and then saving his spot in the side with a brutal knock. Which Roy will we see against the Proteas? Only time will tell. If it’s the former, the Proteas’ bowlers will need to be tight with their bowling margins.

Jofra Archer 

The Barbados-born all-rounder is England’s secret weapon, and received a late call-up to the World Cup squad. His star grew in the IPL where he regularly clocked 150 km/h, making him England’s fastest bowler. If he starts as expected, he will pose an unknown threat with the ball, while also adding even further danger to the Three Lions’ long batting lineup.

READ: CWC ’19 opener: 3 key Proteas players

Joe Root

With an average of 50.47, what’s not to like about England’s Test captain? He is the calm among the storm of power hitters on offer. Root’s position in the England lineup gives the two openers – Jonny Bairstow and Roy – the freedom to play their attacking game, safe in the knowledge of Root following with his ability to drop anchor. With two centuries in nine matches against South Africa, he will be a difficult batsman to rattle.

READ: Head-to-head: Faf vs Morgan

Photo: Getty Images