Jofra Archer
England

J OFRA Archer has been the focal point of much of the talk around World Cup favourites England. Adil Rashid’s leg-spin could be crucial but the Barbados-born Archer looks like playing a role at key moments — be it with new ball at the start of the innings or hurling down the old cherry in the final overs. India skipper Virat Kohli called him the ‘X-factor’ as England bid to end a 44-year World Cup itch.

Kagiso Rabada
South Africa

IF South Africa aspire to overcome their infamous tag of chokers in global competitions then they’ll be depending heavily on the broad shoulders of Kagiso Rabada. For someone who is still very young, Rabada is the undisputed spearhead of the bowling at Faf du Plessis’ disposal. There is no doubt that he is the talisman for his country.

Published in Dawn, May 30th, 2019