WCL 2025 knockout stages have arrived, where every ball, every run & every shot over the ropes means something. One team is the Aussie blasters, one team is South Africa’s juggernauts, and here we have AUS-C vs SA-C, the second semi-final. Both sides have power-hitters, T20 superstars & easily more sixes than a backyard cricket match without the neighbours. Amidst all these stars, some batters are surefire players to watch, potential game-changers. Let’s go through who is in sizzling hot form and why they might just be the difference.
AB de Villiers: SA-C

When AB de Villiers came back onto the field this year in SA-C gold colors, fans were left wondering if he still had it. Four matches later, and he has bludgeoned 303 runs at an incredible average of 151.50 with a strike rate above 230. Incredible, right? It’s like nothing has changed.
Two hundred and one fifty in just four knocks? That is vintage Mr. 360 making a statement. AB’s adaptability is scary. He can scoop a fine leg, reverse lap the quicks, and lift straight down the ground – he can do it all. An Australian bowling unit that has at times looked vulnerable with powerplay bowling may need to take AB to a different plan if it does not contain him very early in the innings. AB can go from legend to semi-final match-winner in a matter of overs.
Chris Lynn: AUS-C

Speaking of mayhem, let me introduce Chris Lynn, aka “Lynnsanity.” The Australian juggernaut has only faced 44 balls in this tournament, but in that time, he has scored 112 runs with a strike rate of 254.54. Yes, he is essentially scoring two runs per ball. You might miss another boundary if you so much as blink.
While Lynn will not have the luxury of facing as many deliveries as others, he has certainly had enough explosive innings to shift momentum. His highest total of 81 illustrates what Lynn is capable of if he only gets to face another 25–30 balls. At the semi-final, knowing the pressure will be dialled up, Australia will be hoping for an early Lynn flame-throwing SA-C off course. If that occurs, the contest with the new-ball South African bowlers could set the entire match in motion.
Jon-Jon Smuts: SA-C

He may not have the flash of AB or the flair of Lynn, but JT Smuts is quietly performing an important function for SA-C. With 129 runs at a slightly above par strike rate of 157.31, Smuts has been the “ratios” in the batting line-up—holding one end while the hitters swing from the hip. His high score of 85 shows he can also build an innings when required, which may come in handy if wickets fall early in a high-stakes knock-out.
Smuts has a bit of strategy; he is tactically aware, knows when to turn the strike over, and when to go for it. In a game that will most likely be swing on momentum, having a batter who can be an anchor and an aggressor is invaluable.
With AB in amazing form, Lynn playing like a cheat code, and Smuts giving some stability to SA-C’s batting, the second semi-final looks to be full of sixes. Regardless of whether you’re team green-and-gold or supporting the Proteas, one thing is for sure: the batters are going to steal the show.
Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.
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