Top 5 contenders for the 2016 ICC World T20

#4 South Africa

South Africa will be banking on AB De Villiers as they look to secure their maiden ICC title

South Africa has undoubtedly been the unluckiest team in ICC tournaments, thus earning the nickname ‘chokers’. They have come very close to winning many times yet a world title has remained far from their reach. In World T20s, they reached the semi-finals in 2009 and 2014, with the latter edition ending on a disappointing note as Virat Kohli’s heroics denied them a chance in the final.

This year they can hope for a better outcome. Most of the players have been involved with the various IPL franchises since the inception of the tournament. AB de Villiers, David Miller & Faf Du Plessis have been the key performers for their respective franchises while Hashim Amla looks secured in any format.

These players need to turn their IPL success into international glory. Dale Steyn is the leader of the bowling attack and has got Morne Morkel as his perfect accomplice. Together they have been the most successful bowling pair for the Proteas.

South Africa needs to bank on Imran Tahir who has done well for them in limited overs cricket. His style of bowling is well suited for the T20s – He has variations, he can bowl the quick leg break and has the ability to deceive the batsmen. With the experience of playing for Delhi Daredevils, he knows what needs to be done in India.

They might need another spinner though according to the situation of the pitches in India. Aaron Phangiso did a decent job against New Zealand in the recent T20s and could very well the man chosen for the task.

The biggest influence in the team is ‘Mr. 360’ AB de Villiers and he needs to put his hand up this time around. He has shown his genius ability on numerous occasions, but when it comes to crucial stages, he needs to go the distance. Having a wonderful IPL record, AB de Villiers is the man for South Africa in their quest for their first ICC title.