The South Africa cricket team [Source: AFP]South Africa will look to complete a clean sweep when they face Namibia in the third and final ODI in Windhoek on September 13. The Proteas have dominated both matches so far, winning the opening game by 99 runs before producing an even more convincing 157-run victory in the second ODI. With almost every player making a meaningful contribution in the latest game, there is little reason for the team management to disrupt a winning combination. The batting unit has found its rhythm, while the bowling group has repeatedly kept Namibia under pressure. Here is a look at South Africa's predicted playing XI for the series finale.Openers and Top Order: Jordan Hermann, Connor Esterhuizen, Tony de ZorziJordan Hermann is expected to retain his place at the top of the order despite managing only 20 runs in the second ODI. He has already shown enough promise with his 150 in the first ODI, and South Africa is unlikely to make a change to an opening combination that has helped them make strong starts.Connor Esterhuizen will be opening alongside Hermann. He has been one of the biggest positives for South Africa. After making 119 off 110 balls in the second ODI, the wicketkeeper-batter has cemented his place alongside Hermann.Tony de Zorzi continued his excellent run with a composed 79 in the second ODI. He paired with Esterhuizen for a crucial partnership and helped South Africa maintain control of the innings while himself averaging 75.50 with the bat. Hence, his position at No. 3 should not cast any doubt.Also Read- Tony de Zorzi, Connor Esterhuizen Join Tendulkar-Ganguly In Elite ListMiddle order: Matthew Breetzke, Dewald Brevis, Jason SmithMatthew Breetzke had a rare failure in the second ODI, falling for just four runs. However, that should not be enough to cost him his place. The right-hander has been the highest run-getter for Proteas in ODIs in the middle order in the last 12 months, accumulating 243 runs from 7 matches while averaging 40.5.Dewald Brevis once again provided the acceleration South Africa needed, scoring 37 off only 30 deliveries at No. 5 in the 2nd ODI. His three sixes highlighted the explosive element he brings to the middle order, and he has also averaged 37 in the series so far; hence, there is no reason for the Proteas to leave him out after another useful contribution.Jason Smith made 18 in the second ODI, but his value extends beyond his batting position. He provides South Africa with another option in the all-round department and adds depth to an already powerful lineup. He is likely to continue at No. 6.All-rounders and Bowlers: Eathan Bosch, Duan Jansen, Prenelan Subrayen (c), Nqabayomzi Peter, Nqobani MokoenaEathan Bosch's performance in the second ODI was arguably one of the most explosive cameos of the match. He smashed 29 off just 13 balls, including four sixes, at a remarkable strike rate of 223.07. His ability to change the complexion of an innings makes him an important lower-order option.Duan Jansen, meanwhile, had a quiet outing with the bat, scoring only two runs, but South Africa's bowling attack has enough depth to accommodate him, who himself is the current pace sensation. He is therefore a likely starter for the finale as he picked a stunning 4-for in the 2nd ODI.Prenelan Subrayen, the skipper, has emerged as one of South Africa's most reliable bowling options in the series. He has picked up four wickets in 13 overs, including a best of 4/29 in the series, while maintaining an economy rate of 4.23. Nqabayomzi Peter has had a limited role with the ball so far, but he remains an option South Africa can trust in the bowling department. With the Proteas already having several wicket-taking options, his ability to operate alongside the frontline bowlers gives the attack useful depth and flexibility.Nqobani Mokoena has also made his presence felt with the ball, claiming one wicket in seven overs during his only bowling appearance. While his figures of 1/31 are not extraordinary, he is likely to retain his place as one of the frontline pacers of the squad.South Africa Playing XI vs Namibia- 3rd ODI, 2026Jordan Hermann, Connor Esterhuizen (wk), Tony de Zorzi, Matthew Breetzke, Dewald Brevis, Jason Smith, Eathan Bosch, Duan Jansen, Prenelan Subrayen (c), Nqabayomzi Peter, Nqobani MokoenaAlso Read- Sri Lanka Squad For Asian Games 2026 Announced; RCB Star Included
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