South African cricket selectors face tough World Cup decision

South Africa are faced with another selection dilemma ahead of the 2019 World Cup, having already given Hashim Amla the nod over Reeza Hendricks for the tournament.

Make no mistake about it: Amla is one of the greatest South African batsmen of all time; nobody can really deny that. However, at the same time, the ‘Mighty Hash’ has not been his usual self over the past two years as he has struggled to find consistency and form.

After struggling in this year’s domestic South African T20 competition, the CSA T20 challenge, Amla left the tournament early in order to fine-tune his batting ahead of the 2019 World Cup, which will surely be his third and last.

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The other opener the Proteas selected is Aiden Markram. Just a few months ago, Markram’s inclusion in the Proteas’ World Cup squad looked to be unlikely after he made a less-than-spectacular start to his limited overs international career. However, the youngster was simply sensational in the Momentum One Day Cup, South Africa’s premier domestic 50 overs competition. He was the leading runscorer in the competition, scoring 542 runs from just five matches at an average of 108.40.

Quinton De Kock will most definitely open the batting for the Proteas at the World Cup. However, question marks hinge over who will partner De Kock at the top of the order. It will be a matter of experience versus current form.

Based on form, Markram should get the nod ahead of Amla, who is struggling to score runs. Many will, however, feel that class is permanent and form is temporary. If the selectors favour experience and someone who has a good record in England, Amla would be the clear choice.

The South African selectors will have a difficult decision to make.