West Indies vs South Africa 2nd Test: Match Preview and Predictions

After rain denied South Africa what would have been a well-earned victory in the opening Test match, Temba Bavuma and his squad will be looking to get the job done this time as they take on the West Indies in the second and final Test match of the series.

Ahead of the game between West Indies and South Africa, here’s our match preview.

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West Indies vs South Africa 2nd Test || South Africa tour of West Indies 2024 || 19:30 IST, August 15, 2024

Even after a washed out opening day, the Proteas put up a strong performance with the bat and then bundled out the hosts cheaply to big up a healthy first-innings lead. They were all set for a win, but rain and a last-ditch fight from Alick Athanaze denied them a important victory away from home.

In terms of batting, South Africa had Tony de Zorzi and captain Bavuma play crucial knocks in the first innings before some rear-guard action from Wiaan Mulder propelled them to a healthy score. Up-and-coming star Tristan Stubbs was the hero in their second innings with a quick-fire 68.

With the ball, Kagiso Rabada and Keshav Maharaj did all the damage in both the innings, though the team management will want the others in the bowling unit to support them as well.

As far as the hosts are concerned, with the bat in their first innings, multiple batters including Kraigg Brathwaite, Mikyle Louis, Jason Holder, and even Jomel Warrican got good starts, but none of them could get to a big score, which was the biggest issue for them as they conceded a big first innings lead.

Chasing 298 in the second innings, the Windies top order crumbled to Maharaj’s spin before Alick Athanaze’s 92 with support from Kavem Hodge, Jason Holder, and the weather gods bailed them out. With the ball, it was only Jomel Warrican who stood out, while Jayden Seales had short inspiring spells, showcasing what he is capable of. 

Moving to Providence, it will be a ground providing a lot of assistance to the spinners, with the likes of Maharaj and Warrican likely to be key once again. South Africa may bring in Dane Piedt for a seamer for this pitch, while the young Gudakesh Motie might also get a game.

The visitors’ superior bowling unit gives them the edge heading into the second game, and the experience of the likes of Bavuma and Aiden Markram against spin further makes them favourites. Expect South Africa to take the win and pick up a crucial series win away from home.

Fantasy XI: Kraigg Brathwaite, Aiden Markram, Tony de Zorzi, Tristian Stubbs, Temba Bavuma, Jason Holder, Kavem Hodge, Jomel Warrican, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Jayden Seales

Venue: Guyana National Stadium, Guyana

Winner Prediction: West Indies