Best Combined XI: Australia vs South Africa ODI World Cup 2023

Australia and South Africa are all set to lock horns in the 10th match of the 2023 ODI World Cup. The two cricketing giants will clash at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on Thursday, October 12. While the five-time champions Australia looks to open their account, South Africa will aim to continue their winning momentum. 

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Pat Cummins and Co. suffered a six-wicket defeat against India in Chennai on October 8. They were bowled out for 199 runs on a difficult surface. The Aussie pacers gave them a good start by picking up three quick wickets, but Virat Kohli and KL Rahul stitched a record partnership to completely take the game away from their opponents. 

Meanwhile, the Proteas registered a thumping 102-run win over Sri Lanka in Delhi on October 7. Three of their top four batters smashed scintillating centuries to help them post the highest-ever total (428) in ODI World Cup history. The Lions, in reply, fought back but the target was never an easy one to chase down in 50-overs. They were bowled out for 326 in 44.5 overs. 

With an exciting encounter awaiting cricket fans in Lucknow, let's take a look at the best combined XI of Australia and South Africa.

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Top order: David Warner, Quinton De Cock, Steve Smith

There is no left-handed right-handed opening combination, but the two southpaws from each team are more than enough to destroy any world-class bowling line-up. Warner, who has crossed 1000 runs in ODI World Cup history, has been in good form in recent times. His 41 was crucial in helping Australia reach a total of 199 against India in the first match. On the other hand, De Cock, who will be bidding farewell to the 50-over format after the World Cup, is in red-hot form. He laid the foundations for South Africa's historic win over Sri Lanka with an 84-ball 100. That's a no-brainer at No. 3 as Australian stalwart Steve Smith is the best option. He scored 46 off 71 balls in the first match against India.

Middle order: Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller

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The middle-order is pretty interesting as all three are South Africans. Aiden Markram, the new holder of the fastest century in the ODI World Cup history, will follow Steve Smith at No. 4. Another centurion in the SA vs SL match, Rassie van der Dussen, unfortunately, misses out on the XI, which shows the strength of this team. At No. 5 Heinrich Klaasen, the spin basher and the power-hitter will be the best. He will be accompanied by David Miller, who is capable of singlehandedly destroying opposition.

All-rounder: Glenn Maxwell

Australia's Glenn Maxwell is the only all-rounder in the side. His right-arm off-break and fireworks with the bat can play a major role in the team's success. Maxi had an off day against India as he failed to shine with both bat (15 off 25) and bowl. He conceded only 33 runs in 8 overs but failed to take any wickets. The 34-year-old will be accompanied by South Africa's Markram in the middle overs. 

Bowlers: Mitchell Starc, Kagiso Rabada, Josh Hazlewood, Adam Zampa   

Mitchell Starc will lead the lethal pace attack that consists of Kagiso Rabada, and Josh Hazlewood. This pace trio can destroy any world-class batting unit with their sheer pace, swing and bounce. Adam Zampa is the only spinner on the side, but he will get assistance from Markram and Maxwell.