South Africa Loses Nerve in Run Chase, Afghanistan Triumphs
Despite Defeat | CWC23
In a nail-biting encounter at the ICC World Cup 2023, South
Africa faced a stern test of their run-chasing abilities against Afghanistan in
the last league-stage match. Despite already securing a spot in the
semi-finals, South Africa's vulnerability in run chases came to the forefront
once again. This blog post delves into the thrilling showdown between South
Africa and Afghanistan, highlighting the twists and turns that unfolded on the
field, the standout performances, and the resilience displayed by both teams in
this captivating clash.
Report of South Africa vs. Afghanistan in the ICC World Cup
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Live Score
Reaching the semi-finals had showcased South Africa's
explosive batting throughout the tournament, achieving significant scores.
However, their weakness in run chases became evident once more in the last
league-stage match against Afghanistan, who didn't let them win easily.
In the semi-final against Afghanistan, South Africa
demonstrated a strong start, dismissing the top order with Gerald Coetzee's
excellent bowling performance. Restricting Afghanistan to only 244 runs, Rassie
van der Dussen's resilient half-century guided the team to the target.
Nevertheless, South Africa's vulnerability in chasing targets was once again
exposed.
South Africa's explosive batting played a crucial role in
reaching the semi-finals, scoring big totals. However, when batting at the
second position, they faced difficulties, especially against the Netherlands,
where they had to overcome a shocking defeat. Despite winning against Pakistan
with a remarkable performance by the lower-order batsmen, they struggled to
reach a modest score against India. Afghanistan also proved to be a tough
opponent, and despite the loss, Afghanistan won hearts with their splendid
performance in this World Cup.
Coetzee Dominates, Omarzai Rescues
Just five days ago at Eden Gardens, South Africa suffered a convincing defeat against Team India. Once again, they had to face the same ground and the same challenge. However, this time, they had to chase. South Africa's bowlers started strong, dismantling Afghanistan's top order, with only 45 runs for the loss of three wickets.
As wickets fell all around him, Azmatullah Omarzai resisted | CWC23
Following Rahmat Shah's dismissal, the innings stumbled, losing six wickets by the 28th over with a score of 116 runs. The responsibility fell on Omarzai, who did not disappoint. He partnered with Rashid Khan (14) and Naveen-ul-Haq (26) to trouble the South African bowlers and took the team to a score of 244 runs. Omarzai fell just short of a century, getting out for 97. For South Africa, Gerald Coetzee took four wickets, while Lungi Ngidi and Keshav Maharaj took two wickets each.
South Africa's Roller-Coaster Victory
South Africa's start was similar to what was needed. Captain
Temba Bavuma (23) and Quinton de Kock (41) added 60 runs in just 10 overs.
However, South Africa once again faced the challenge in run chases. Within
three overs, both openers were back in the pavilion. Bavuma's poor form
continued, while De Kock couldn't convert his good start into a big score.
Afghanistan's spinners created difficulties for South Africa.
From there, Rassie van der Dussen took charge, receiving good support from Aiden Markram (25). The duo added 50 runs together. Rashid (2/37) broke the partnership by dismissing Markram, and shortly after, leg-spinner dismantled explosive batsman Heinrich Klaasen. David Miller (24) supported Rassie for a while, but he succumbed to Mohammad Nabi's spin. Rassie (76 not out) then joined forces with Andile Phehlukwayo (39 not out) to guide the team to the target.
A lot of positives to take home for this resilient Afghanistan side. 🇦🇫👏🏻#Afghanistan #Cricket #CWC23 #Sportskeeda pic.twitter.com/GRCtAYRmBE
— Sportskeeda (@Sportskeeda) November 10, 2023
