It’s a ‘do or die’ match for Pakistan. It will be difficult for them to reach quarter-finals if they lose this match against South Africa on Saturday. South Africa also need victory to emerge as group champion so that they get a weaker opponent in the quarter-finals. So, the match is important for both the teams.

In my view, South Africa is favourite in this match. Out of 100, I will give 65 marks to south Africa where Pakistan will get 35. South Africa is quite ahead of Pakistan in all three departments of batting-bowling-fielding.

It will be better for Pakistan to field first. If they bat first, they may face disaster while tackling ferocious pack attack of the Proteas.

Also, it will be tough for Pakistan to grasp Proteas if Pakistani bowlers fail to take early wickets. De Villiers’ side is now in a flying mood as they scored more than 400 runs in the last two matches consecutively. So Pakistan have to be strict in their bowling, though their performance was not up to the mark in last few matches.

Before the World cup start, I thought the long batting line-up of Pakistan will give extra advantage to them. But so far they have not performed well. Misbah’s side will be in distress if they cannot restrict Proteas within 250-260.

However, it is really difficult to comment on Pakistan in advance. I will not be surprised if they show any brilliant stunt in the match.

In the other match on Saturday, Zimbabwe will be ahead of Ireland in my ranking. Ireland is also playing well. I think there will be good fight in the match.

Minhajul Abedin Nannu: Selector of Bangladesh Cricket Board and former captain of Bangladesh cricket team. He is the first Man of the Match of Bangladesh in World Cup.

Translated by Bijoy Chandra Shaha