South Africa – ranked 3rd in the world in both the ODI’s, Test cricket and T20 format, the Proteas are shaping up to be one of the favorites to lift this year’s trophy.

At the helm is captain Faf du Plessis, followed by wicket keeper Quinton de Kock, Kagiso Rabada, JP Duminy, David Miller, Dale Steyn, Andile Phehlukwayo, Imran Tahir, Dwaine Pretorius, Anrich Nortje, Lungi Ngidi, Aiden Markram, Rassie van der Dussen, Hashim Amla, Tabraiz Shamsi, and Chris Morris.

With 5 batsmen ranked in the Top 20, 4 of the top 20 best bowlers and a few top all-rounders, the Proteas have the ability to make their mark in this world cup.

In previous tournaments, the Proteas have come close to the title, but fell short at the Semi-Finals on four occasions. As the host nation for the 2003 Cricket World Cup, they failed to progress past the group stages.

Could this world cup be the turning point for the Proteas to finally get their hands on the trophy?

South Africa’s first game is against the host nation England at The Oval on 30 May.

Image Credit: The South African