South Africa have surprised many with the cricket they have played in the World Cup so far. They have batted powerfully, bowled smartly and haven’t blinked even against tough challenges.

As the Proteas take on the Netherlands here on Tuesday, Temba Bavuma’s team will once again look to make a statement, that they are ready to shed the tag of being the perennial under-performers.

Their 102-run win against Sri Lanka in the opener in New Delhi after putting a record 428/5 on the board, followed by a 134-run victory against five-time champions Australia in Lucknow, have made South Africa the team to beat in the competition.

Their confident displays have come in stark contrast to how stronger teams like England and Australia have played.

With the bat, Quinton de Kock, Rassie van der Dussen and Aiden Markram have made a massive impact. With the ball in hand, Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada were impressive as they diosmantled Pat Cummins’ side.

It will also be a grudge match for the Proteas, who were eliminated by the Dutch from the T20 World Cup last year. The Orange men had inflicted a shocking 13-run defeat on the Africans in the Super 12 stage.

The Netherlands, without a win so far, will surely need some inspiration to face the challenge.

With inputs from PTI