Australia showcased remarkable composure to secure a thrilling victory over South Africa at Eden Gardens, securing their place in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 final.
The low-scoring encounter saw Australia’s bowlers initially dominate, but a superb century from David Miller propelled South Africa to a total of 212.
In a nail-biting chase, Australia faced a target of 213, reminiscent of the iconic 1999 semi-final between the two teams. Travis Head and David Warner’s aggressive start set the tone, but South Africa’s spinners staged a comeback, creating tension with timely wickets.
However, Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins held their nerve, guiding Australia to a win with three wickets and 16 balls to spare.
Australia’s bowlers, particularly Hazlewood (2/12) and Head (2/21), played pivotal roles in restricting South Africa to 212. Despite Miller’s heroic century, the Proteas fell short.
In response, Head’s explosive 62 and contributions from Smith and Inglis guided Australia through turbulent moments, ensuring their place in the final against India.
Australia’s decision to bat first paid off as Starc and Hazlewood exploited favorable conditions. The Proteas struggled at 24/4, with Starc and Hazlewood dismantling the top order.
A rain delay provided South Africa a chance to regroup, and Miller’s century anchored their innings. However, Head’s spin and Australia’s disciplined bowling limited South Africa to 212.
The chase saw Warner and Head’s aggressive start disrupted by South Africa’s spinners, but Head’s fifty and partnerships with Smith and Inglis steered Australia.
Coetzee and Shamsi’s breakthroughs revived South Africa’s hopes, but ultimately, Starc and Cummins sealed Australia’s victory.
Australia’s clinical performance sets the stage for an exciting final against India, where they aim to secure a historic sixth men’s Cricket World Cup title.
