South Africa clinched a one-run victory over Nepal, thanks to a straightforward middle-overs strategy, according to captain Aiden Markram. With Nepal needing just 31 runs from 39 balls and having eight wickets in hand, the Proteas managed a remarkable comeback.
The turning point came with Tabraiz Shamsi’s brilliant spell and Ottneil Bartman’s crucial final over. Shamsi’s impressive 4/19, including two key wickets in the 18th over, disrupted Nepal’s chase, while Bartman’s disciplined 20th over sealed the win for South Africa.
Markram explained in the post-match conference that the team’s plan focused on maintaining a simple, hard-length strategy during the middle overs. “We wanted to keep it really simple. By hitting a hard length, the odd ball would shoot low, keeping the stumps in play,” Markram said, emphasizing the importance of not over-pitching to avoid easy hits.
Bartman executed this plan effectively, mixing good length deliveries with the occasional short ball to surprise the batters. “Sticking to that hard length and using the short ball strategically worked for us. It wasn’t a death plan, just a straightforward middle-overs approach suited to the pitch,” Markram added.
Shamsi’s performance was pivotal, with his double strike in the 18th over removing Dipendra Singh Airee (6) and Aasif Sheikh (42), halting Nepal’s momentum. Despite the fast bowlers securing only one wicket, Markram expressed satisfaction with their efforts.
“Our fast-bowling unit has been performing well throughout the competition. Although we didn’t provide them with a big total to defend, they kept us in the game and brought it down to the last over,” Markram noted. He praised Shamsi’s exceptional performance, highlighting his impact on the game.
“Shamsi was excellent. It’s great to have him back, bowling the way he did. From a bowling perspective, there aren’t too many concerns, but we can certainly learn from the other facets of the game,” Markram concluded.
This victory underscores South Africa’s ability to remain calm under pressure and execute a well-thought-out strategy to clinch wins in tight situations.