South Africa vs Sri Lanka 2019: 5 takeaways from the ODI series

#4. Outline of South African Batting Line-up Clear

Faf du Plessis too had a good series

With Quinton de Kock and Faf du Plessis striking form and Rassie van der Dussen continuing his good run, the make-up of the South African batting line-up is largely decided for the World Cup. By scoring a good half-century in the final game, Aiden Markram has, almost certainly, booked his place in the squad also.

The likes of David Miller and JP Duminy are certain to be in the playing XI. So, there aren’t too many spots up for grabs. Since Hashim Amla is all set to return to the ODI squad, it seems that he is certain to open alongside de Kock in England.

The decline in Amla's form over the last couple of years has worried the South African cricket fraternity. However, he has been too good a player to be left out at this late stage. With the undeniable class possessed by the veteran, it won’t come as a surprise if he regains his form on the biggest stage.

So, de Kock, Amla, Markram, du Plessis, Duminy, Miller and van der Dussen are a certainty for the World Cup squad. With Proteas likely to opt for an all-rounder in the final XI, it may well be a toss-up between Markram and Dussen for the only spot available. However, if Amla doesn’t regain his form in the early matches, both may be retained and the experienced pro made to sit out.

But that is all in the future. At the moment, the batting line-up is settled and if it plays to its potential, it is second to none.