Two teams have some interest history when they face each other. Most importantly, they face each other not in a dead rubber game, it was last league match of Men’s T20 World Cup for South Africa when they failed to chase down 159 runs target.
This time again they meet in ODIs that is so crucial for South Africa as the victory will push them inside the qualification for Men’s ODI World Cup 2023, a loss will force them to play qualifier round of cricket.
As in ongoing match between New Zealand and Sri Lanka, the home is set to defeat the visitors yet again in the third ODI unless something magical takes place. South Africa can have a sigh of relief, now they have to win only one of their two ODI matches against the Dutch.
All being said, Proteas are in a good space unless they take too much pressure make something of a trouble. They have been in good form, especially their batting is most destructive at the moment and with inform players like Temba Bavuma, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller and Aiden Markram, the job at hand will be easier for them.
Ireland is struggling against Bangladesh, the home side has been in domination against the best of teams so Ireland are falling apart which makes it unlikely that they will be able to beat the Bangladesh when both teams come face to face in May. Ireland will need to win at least 2 of three games to move past South Africa if they sit at 8th place.
Penalties can make it tougher for Proteas, a few months earlier Cricket South Africa decided to not take part in 3 match ODI series against Australia due to the planned SA20 League. That was a big deal and it certainly gave Australia walkway points.
As they presently have a higher net run rate than the West Indies, South Africa could also advance to the competition on the strength of two no outcomes or tied encounters.
At the conclusion of what is a lengthy tour of Bangladesh, Ireland will face a stiff challenge to obtain any favourable outcomes.
The fact that Ireland will be aware of precisely what must be accomplished in order to receive certification, however, works in their favour.
The Proteas cannot fully secure their position in the series against the Dutch, but with two victories, Sri Lanka and Ireland will find it very difficult to overtake them.