South Africa showcased their dominance in the Cricket World Cup 2023 (CWC23), making a strong statement by defeating Australia by a substantial margin of 134 runs in the 10th match held in Lucknow.
In a well-fought battle, South Africa proved to be a force to be reckoned with, both in their exceptional bowling and fielding performances.
Right from the start, South Africa displayed their intent with an impressive new-ball blitz that saw them dismantle the Australian batting lineup.
Marco Jansen, Lungi Ngidi, and Kagiso Rabada claimed crucial wickets, pushing Australia into a precarious position at 65/5. Glenn Maxwell’s early departure, falling for just three runs, and Marcus Stoinis being deemed caught behind, courtesy of Rabada’s bowling, further deepened Australia’s woes at 70/6.
Australia’s innings struggled to gain momentum, taking until the 26th over to reach the three-figure mark, thanks to a resilient partnership between Marnus Labuschagne and Mitchell Starc.
However, their efforts were in vain as Australia’s innings was wrapped up within 41 overs, resulting in a net run rate saving attempt that ultimately fell short.
The Australian pursuit of South Africa’s imposing total of 312 began cautiously, but the scoring rate picked up in the sixth over, laden with extras.
Marco Jansen’s five no-balls and five wides in a single over didn’t deter him from taking a breakthrough wicket when Mitchell Marsh attempted to take him on. David Warner also fell early in the innings, further tilting the contest in South Africa’s favor.
Kagiso Rabada continued to trouble the Australian batsmen, dismissing Steve Smith and Josh Inglis, who replaced Alex Carey. Glenn Maxwell, who struggled throughout the evening, gave a return catch to Keshav Maharaj. Rabada struck again to dismiss Marcus Stoinis, sealing South Africa’s victory.
Earlier, South Africa set the stage for a commanding total, largely thanks to a remarkable century from Quinton de Kock. De Kock’s powerful innings included five sixes and eight fours, allowing him to reach three figures in just 90 deliveries before being dismissed by Glenn Maxwell with 109 runs to his name.
De Kock’s exceptional performance not only helped South Africa compile a massive total but also propelled him to become the tournament’s highest run-scorer, with 209 runs at an impressive average of 104.50.
Though South Africa appeared set to breach the 350-run mark, Glenn Maxwell’s resilient bowling performance curbed their scoring rate. Maxwell claimed both openers while his spin partner, Adam Zampa, removed Rassie van der Dussen. Despite the minor setbacks, van der Dussen reached a personal milestone by surpassing 2000 runs in ODI cricket in just 45 innings.
In contrast to their contrasting starts in the tournament, Australia struggled in Chennai and lost to India, while South Africa dominated in Delhi, winning against Sri Lanka on a flat deck.
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