Zaahier Adams
The Proteas were found wanting against England in their last ICC T20 Women's World Cup clash in Sharjah. They now head to Dubai for a must-win clash against Scotland. Zaahier Adams picks five focus areas.
Dominate the Powerplay
Both with bat and ball, the Proteas need to exert their early dominance on the Scots, who are playing in their first T20 World Cup. The last thing the Proteas want is for the debutants to grow into the game and gain confidence the longer they stay in the contest.
Be clinical
The Proteas fielding, particularly their catching, against England left a lot to be desired with three catches spilled. If the Proteas are to be genuine contenders at this T20 World Cup, they will need to significantly improve their efforts in the field.
Get Marizanne Kapp up the order
While the Proteas are wary of managing Kapp’s workload, especially in regards to her bowling after the team has batted first, the world’s premier all-rounder can't be sitting in the dug out while dot balls are being chewed up in the middle. Kapp needs to walk in at No 3, especially if there has been a positive start by the openers.
Be accurate
The spin bowling contingent were not on the mark against England, and in these helpful conditions for the slow bowlers, there has to be a greater accuracy. Dot balls create pressure which leads to wickets and the Proteas spinners need to be on the mark.
Take care of the Net Run-Rate
The Proteas don't only need to win today, but they also need to win well.
The West Indies trounced Scotland within 12 overs to significantly boost their NRR and have given themselves a lifeline should they beat England. The Proteas do not want to find themselves in the position where calculators need to be hauled out. A convincing win over the Scots will ensure that doesn’t happen.