England are the current world number ones, and the fact that they are the hosts as well will put there pressure on them to perform.

It is the fifth time that England has hosted the World Cup, while they have played in the final on three occasions, but they have never been able to lift the trophy.

The Proteas have been written off as contenders, however, the former South African fast bowler, Allan Donald, told OFM Sport that this will suit them.

“What I like about this things is that they have come in under the radar,” said the stalwart of Free State cricket.

“There was no sort of South Africa are the favourites to the win the World Cup. It is has been really quiet here in England about the South Africa team.

“No-one has really spoken about them a lot, and this is something which I like, and I think that the South Africans will like that as well.

“They are just sort of gliding under the radar, and come Thursday, with a bit of luck, which you need in a World Cup, and with the squad of theirs they can certainly knock off England.

“It is not going to be easy. England will absolutely and 100% feel the pressure.

“They play a brand of cricket that is destructive, it is aggressive and it is in your face. That is what they are going to do and that is what they are going to bring all the time.

“They will never make South Africa settle at any point with the bat or with the ball.”

Thursday’s massive match at the Oval in London to start the World Cup gets underway at 11:30.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport