In a groundbreaking move set to captivate the burgeoning cricket audience in North America, Betway SA20 Season 2 is gearing up for an exclusive showcase on Willow TV, announced Friday, December 29, 2023. Willow TV, renowned for its comprehensive coverage of international cricket, joins an esteemed global lineup of broadcasters, including SuperSport (Sub-Saharan Africa), Viacom (India), Sky Sports (UK), FoxTel (Australasia), Estisalat (UAE), and ICC TV (worldwide), in presenting the highly anticipated 34-match tournament kicking off on January 10, 2024.
Amid the forthcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup spotlighting the USA and Caribbean in the coming year, this partnership stands poised to enrapture the rapidly expanding cricket aficionados across the region. Graeme Smith, Betway SA20 League Commissioner, acknowledges the tremendous potential of this burgeoning market, hailing it as the opportune moment to unveil the much-awaited SA20 Season 2 to fervent fans.
"We are thrilled to collaborate with Willow TV in extending the thrill of Betway SA20 to cricket enthusiasts in North America. As the sport gains significant traction in this region, this exclusive broadcasting pact ensures fans become part of the charged ambiance of SA20 Season 2," remarked Smith.
Promising an electrifying viewing experience, Willow TV emerges as the perfect ally to showcase the dynamic and competitive universe of SA20 to a broader audience. Todd Myers, Chief Operating Officer of Willow TV, expressed pride in being designated as the official broadcaster of Betway SA20 in the USA and Canada.
"The inclusion of SA20 Season 2 in our lineup underscores our commitment to offering the finest in international and domestic cricket to our viewers. We eagerly anticipate highlighting the talent and thrill that this captivating league brings to the T20 format," said Myers.
Commencing January 10, 2024, cricket enthusiasts across North America can savor the excitement of SA20 Season 2, promising a showcase of top-tier cricketing talent, intense rivalries, and unparalleled entertainment. Through this collaboration, the League and Willow TV aim not only to engage existing fans but also to entice new cricket enthusiasts, fostering the sport's growth in the region.
The inaugural clash at St George’s Park on January 10 will witness Sunrisers Eastern Cape battling Joburg Super Kings in a month-long extravaganza. Tickets for league matches are available for purchase at www.sa20.co.za.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
Mark your calendars for January 10, 2024, as the highly anticipated return of Betway SA20 draws closer, promising a thrilling showcase of top-notch cricketing action. With Betway back as the title sponsor, the renowned sports betting and entertainment brand is all set to escalate the excitement with the revival of the Betway Catch R2 Million campaign.
Hailed as an unprecedented success in Season 1, the Betway Catch R2 Million campaign captured the imagination of fans, granting numerous lucky spectators a slice of the R2 million prize pool by catching a one-handed clean six during the exhilarating Betway SA20 matches.
Assembling some of the world's finest batsmen, South Africa's premier T20 cricket league is geared up to ignite Season 2, offering fans in the stands a significantly increased opportunity to net the life-changing catch.
Beyond the enthralling on-field clashes, match attendees are in for an amplified stadium experience, merging world-class cricket with stellar performances by top South African entertainment artists.
Graeme Smith, the Betway SA20 League Commissioner, emphasized the paramount importance of elevating fan engagement for the league's second edition. "Fan engagement is crucial for any spectacular sporting event, and the Betway Catch R2 Million competition epitomizes this," remarked Smith. "The excitement it generated among fans in Season 1 was unparalleled. Witnessing the fervor spread across stadiums and beyond was incredible, and having it return for Season 2 adds an extra layer of thrill to the game. It offers fans a unique chance to actively participate and vie for a life-altering reward. I'm excited to witness the catching action this season."
Mark Rowles, Betway's Head of Marketing, expressed eagerness at Betway's role in driving innovative initiatives that resonate with the brand's fervor for sports and fan involvement. "As proud sponsors of Betway SA20, we're thrilled to build on the triumph of the inaugural edition," Rowles shared. "The success of the Betway Catch R2 Million campaign in engaging fans at stadiums and viewers at home was remarkable. Bringing it back for Season 2 amplifies the excitement. We encourage fans to join in and increase their chances of winning big by registering a Betway account. Alongside the Catch R2 Million campaign, we're launching an exciting new promotion called 'Game of Zones' during the opening fixture week."
For Betway customers nationwide unable to attend matches, a thrilling opportunity awaits. They can predict the specific stadium zone where a clean, one-handed catch will be taken. Correct predictions offer customers a chance to win the same amount as live catch winners in the stadium.
Continuing the tradition from the previous season, Betway account holders stand to double their winnings if they catch a one-handed clean catch during the matches.
The Betway SA20 extravaganza spans from January 10 to February 10, 2024, across Cape Town, Pretoria, Durban, Gqeberha, Johannesburg, and Paarl. Kicking off the action at St George's Park in Gqeberha, defending champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape will face off against Joburg Super Kings on January 10. Tickets for these exhilarating matches are available at www.SA20.co.za. Gear up for an unforgettable T20 cricket experience!
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
As the countdown to the exhilarating Betway SA20 Season 2 kick-off begins, SuperSport is gearing up to deliver an electrifying viewing experience that promises to redefine the cricket-watching landscape. Set to commence on January 10, 2024, at St George's Park in Gqeberha, Season 2 is all set to surpass its successful debut with a multitude of innovations and immersive elements.
Anticipating an explosive start following its inaugural triumph, SuperSport, in collaboration with its partners, is geared up to introduce a series of pioneering innovations. These advancements are meticulously designed to enthrall television audiences and fans, elevating their viewing encounters to uncharted realms of excitement and engagement.
Picture this: the Com Cam, offering a fixed view of the commentary box, boasting renowned former international cricketers delivering expert analysis. But that's not all. SuperSport's innovative blend of match-day and on-screen experiences includes the Dug Out, a boundary-level camera bridging the gap between viewers and players/coaches near the ropes. Not forgetting the iconic Couch, where commentators, fans, and celebrities converge, creating an interactive cricket-watching extravaganza.
However, SuperSport isn't just aiming for the stands. They're bringing the stadium experience right to your living room. Match Official technology will grant viewers a peek into the live communication among umpires during matches - an unprecedented facet for Betway SA20. Notably, audiences won't just hear the third umpire but also the on-field umpires' direct exchanges.
Rendani Ramovha, CEO of SuperSport, expressed sheer delight at the prospect of sharing unparalleled experiences with both stadium attendees and viewers alike. "SuperSport is upping the ante from Season 1 to match the pulsating action of Betway SA20. Whether you're tuned in via DStv Stream or Premium, we're ensuring an enthralling experience, rivaling the excitement of being at the venue itself," said Ramovha.
In a summer brimming with cricketing excitement, SuperSport is all set to offer live on-field player tracking, gamified player-naming features, and the revolutionary BuggyQam - a mobile camera placing viewers right amidst the cricketing action.
Moreover, the inclusion of animations featuring the iconic Big 5 wildlife adds a uniquely South African flavor to the League. Expect amusing illustrations of dismissals, fours, and sixes, amplifying the viewer experience.
League Commissioner Graeme Smith echoed the sentiments, emphasizing the joint efforts of Betway SA20 and SuperSport in elevating viewer engagement and connection. "Innovation is at our core, and we aim to redefine cricket viewing while fostering an immersive platform for fans. Whether you're at home or in the stadium, brace yourself for an unforgettable experience," stated Smith.
SuperSport is breaking barriers further by offering match commentary in three official South African languages: English, Afrikaans, and isiXhosa, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for diverse viewers.
Get ready for a cricket season that transcends boundaries - an immersive, exhilarating spectacle that promises to captivate audiences like never before.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
Johannesburg - Cricket South Africa (CSA) has unveiled the highly anticipated Proteas squads set to clash against India in a blockbuster all-format series, known as the Freedom Series, slated from 10th December to 7th January.
The high-stakes tour encompasses three KFC T20 Internationals (T20Is), three Betway One-Day Internationals (ODIs), and two Betway Test matches, promising an action-packed battle between the cricketing giants.
Excitingly, the squads feature fresh talent and strategic inclusions. Western Province's rising stars Mihlali Mpongwana, David Bedingham, and Nandre Burger have received their maiden call-ups to the national setup. Burger's sensational all-round performances this season earned him spots in all three squads, while Bedingham earned his place in the Test squad. Mpongwana's stellar showing in the CSA Division 1 One-Day Cup solidified his spot in the ODI squad after a standout performance in October's final against North West Dragons.
Adding more firepower, Dafabet Warriors' Tristan Stubbs makes his Test squad debut, showcasing his prowess with an impressive 130 against DP World Lions in the recent CSA 4-Day Domestic Series.
The return of Province's wicket-keeper Kyle Verreynne bolsters the ODI and Test squads. Verreynne's stellar performances in domestic competitions, including leading Province to the One-Day Cup title and a splendid show in the four-day competition, secured his place.
Key exclusions, including ODI captain Temba Bavuma and Kagiso Rabada, from the white-ball leg aim to prioritize red-ball cricket, focusing on the upcoming Test series. This strategic move paves the way for new talents to shine on the international stage.
However, the absence of Momentum Multiply Titans' fast bowler Lizaad Williams due to a groin strain casts a shadow over the team's preparations. His fitness will be assessed further this week. Meanwhile, Anrich Nortje and Wayne Parnell continue their rehabilitation, ruled out due to lower back stress fracture and a left shoulder injury, respectively.
The Proteas T20I squad boasts talent with Aiden Markram leading the team, featuring a formidable lineup including Ottniel Baartman, Matthew Breetzke, and the seasoned David Miller, among others. The ODI squad, led by Markram, showcases a blend of experience and fresh talent with the likes of Reeza Hendricks and Rassie van der Dussen.
Test head coach Shukri Conrad expressed confidence in the near full-strength Test squad, aiming for a strong start in the new ICC World Test Championship cycle against India in South Africa.
As the excitement builds for this epic showdown, the tour itinerary promises thrilling encounters across various iconic cricketing venues. The series kicks off in Durban on 10th December, setting the stage for a riveting battle between these cricketing powerhouses.
The Proteas gear up to defend their pride on home soil against a formidable Indian team in a series anticipated to deliver enthralling cricketing action, setting the stage for a memorable clash between bat and ball.
Tour itinerary
KFC T20I Series
Sunday, 10 December
South Africa vs India - Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium, Durban
Tuesday, 12 December
South Africa vs India – Dafabet St George’s Park, Gqeberha
Thursday, 14 December
South Africa vs India - DP World Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg
Betway ODI Series
Sunday, 17 December - Betway Pink Day
South Africa vs India - DP World Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg
Tuesday, 19 December
South Africa vs India – Dafabet St George’s Park, Gqeberha
Thursday, 21 December
South Africa vs India - Boland Park, Paarl
Betway Test Series
26 December – 30 December
South Africa vs India - SuperSport Park, Centurion
03 January – 07 January
South Africa vs India - Newlands Cricket Ground, Cape Town
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
The Sevens Stadium in Dubai bore witness to an electrifying start as Australia's women and South Africa's men emerged triumphant in the HSBC SVNS 2024, setting the tone for World Rugby's dynamic celebration of rugby sevens.
In an intense showdown, South Africa's Blitzboks claimed their fifth consecutive Emirates Dubai 7s title by defeating a resilient Argentina 12-7. This victory equaled the record for the most successive titles at a single location, marking Argentina's finest performance in Dubai despite settling for silver.
The women's final showcased a gripping battle between the world's top two teams. Australia, in a rematch of last year's final, halted New Zealand's astounding 41-match winning streak with a 26-19 victory, securing their fourth consecutive Dubai title in a high-voltage kickoff to HSBC SVNS 2024.
Teagan Levi's pivotal tries, coupled with Maddison Levi breaking her own tournament try record, propelled Australia to victory. The game unfolded at an astounding pace, featuring Bienne Tarita's early try within seconds and a formidable response from the Black Ferns Sevens' Jorja Miller with a stunning hat-trick, before Maddison Levi sealed the win in the dying moments.
Reflecting on the match, Australia's captain Charlotte Caslick praised Maddison Levi's stellar performance, emphasizing the team's strategy to retain possession against the formidable New Zealand side, known for their attacking prowess.
On the path to the final, New Zealand showcased their dominance by defeating Brazil and Canada in gripping encounters, while Australia secured wins against the USA and France before claiming the championship.
The men's final witnessed South Africa edging out Argentina 12-7 in a tense battle. Impi Visser and Shilton van Wyk's crucial tries, combined with Argentina's valiant efforts, culminated in a tightly contested showdown. Despite a late resurgence from Argentina's Matias Osadczuk, South Africa held firm to secure the title.
South Africa's acting head coach, Philip Snyman, lauded his squad's remarkable performances, emphasizing their commitment and pride in the Springbok Sevens jersey.
With the series now heading to South Africa, fans eagerly anticipate the forthcoming tournament in Cape Town, hoping for another stellar performance from the reigning champions.
The event's pool draw for the upcoming HSBC SVNS in Cape Town produced exciting matchups, building anticipation among fans for another exhilarating display of world-class rugby sevens.
As the HSBC SVNS extravaganza continues, featuring pulsating rugby sevens action alongside live music acts and vibrant entertainment, fans are urged not to miss out on the upcoming Cape Town event, set to deliver yet another thrilling display of top-tier rugby action.
Tickets for the next round in Cape Town on 9-10 December are available from only R150, offering an unmissable experience for rugby enthusiasts and sports lovers alike.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
In a grand proclamation, the illustrious City of Cape Town proudly steps into the limelight, announced as the prestigious Host City for the forthcoming Betway SA20 Final, slated for the resplendent date of 10th February 2024. This momentous partnership between the City and the tournament promises to unfurl the vibrant tapestry of Cape Town's allure to a global audience, casting its magnetic charm in the corridors of tourism hotspots worldwide.
Adorned with natural beauty and steeped in cultural richness, the iconic Newlands stadium emerges as the sacred ground where the champions of Betway SA20 Season 2 will be anointed on the grand stage of the Final. Not merely content with hosting the Final, Newlands sets the scene for the inaugural Qualifier on 6th February. Meanwhile, the Wanderers stands ready to host two exhilarating back-to-back knockout clashes - the thrilling Eliminator on 7th February and the gripping Qualifier 2 on 8th February.
The City of Cape Town, now anointed as the official 'Host City – Final' partner, embarks on an unprecedented journey to amplify its magnificence across the League's global network and vast audience.
Cape Town, an eminent gem in the treasure trove of global tourist destinations, captivates hearts with its heritage sites, iconic landmarks, diverse arts, cultural extravaganza, and pristine natural resources. A symphony of unparalleled offerings awaits within the city's embrace - an ensemble of experiences that cater to every discerning visitor.
"Merely 50 days away from the onset of this cricketing extravaganza, this marks a pivotal moment as we crown the City of Cape Town as our esteemed Host City for the Final, locking in our venues for the playoffs and Final," proclaimed the Betway SA20 League Commissioner, Graeme Smith. "Summer and cricket weave a timeless narrative, and with the January/February window secured annually, SA20 promises to be the ultimate destination. Cape Town, a global hotspot for summer escapades, has proved its mettle by hosting distinguished events like the Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup Final, the Volvo Ocean Race, the URC Final, the Cape Epic, and more. The city pulsates with a unique energy, boasting iconic locales and a plethora of entertainment options. We eagerly anticipate the city setting the stage for a world-class Final on the 10th of February 2024."
A bastion of cricketing lore, the Wanderers has witnessed iconic clashes etched in the annals of South African cricket. It has been the arena for historic encounters, including the famed 438 game, the 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup Final, and the scintillating 2023 Betway SA20 Final.
Nestled beneath the towering majesty of the mountains, Newlands, with its famed Oaks embankment, resounding Railway Stand, the tantalizing aroma wafting from the nearby brewery, and the ethereal sunsets, transforms each match into a timeless spectacle.
"As the City of Cape Town, we embark on an exhilarating partnership with Betway SA20 to showcase our resplendent city during their Season 2 playoffs and Final. We take pride in having been chosen by the Mumbai Indians, the joint-most successful IPL team, as the home for their SA20 franchise. Securing Newlands as the Final's venue augurs well for MI Cape Town in Season 2," affirmed the Deputy Mayor, Eddie Andrews.
"The electrifying buzz in the city during Season 1, from avid cricket enthusiasts to casual sports aficionados, was palpable. Moreover, the economic and environmental impact of the League resonates with our vision of enhancing the lives of our citizens. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with SA20 to showcase spectacular cricketing action and the splendor of our city throughout the tournament, culminating in the playoffs and the grand final at Newlands."
In an exciting addition to Season 2, the playoffs will witness the top teams vying for supremacy - Qualifier 1, the Eliminator, and Qualifier 2, paving the way for an epic championship clash in the Final on the 10th of February.
With just 50 days to go before the commencement of this enthralling cricketing fiesta, the anticipation builds as the world's elite cricketers prepare for a month brimming with entertainment, top-notch cricket, and everlasting memories.
The defending champions, Sunrisers Eastern Cape, shall commence their title defense with a riveting encounter against the Joburg Super Kings in Gqeberha on the 10th of January, unleashing cricket fever across South Africa's premier stadiums throughout the month.
Tickets for the playoffs and the Final will be available for purchase starting from the 8th of January on www.SA20.co.za. Stay tuned to Betway SA20 and the City of Cape Town's social media platforms to seize your chance to be part of the electrifying atmosphere at these matches. Tickets for the round-robin matches are presently accessible on www.SA20.co.za.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
Amidst triumphant embraces and victorious cheers, Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc secured Australia's spot in the World Cup Final showdown against India. Their astute tactical prowess at the tail-end ensured a thrilling clash at Ahmedabad’s Modi mega-bowl, marking a deserving victory over South Africa.
In a tumultuous day-night encounter on a capricious pitch, Cummins and his squad took charge, restricting their opponents to 212 and chasing down the target with 16 balls to spare. However, the riveting match was peppered with stumbling blocks, witnessed by a crowd of 48,000 locals, leaving Temba Bavuma's South African team in heartbreak.
The Proteas faced early setbacks as Australia's initial strikes were followed by a magnificent century from David Miller, injecting hope into an otherwise challenging situation. Yet, despite their valiant effort with the ball, overcoming notable batters like Travis Head and David Warner, South Africa's dream faltered, marking their seventh exit at the semi-final stage in ODI and T20 World Cups.
The age-old debate on 'choking' surfaced, promptly dismissed by South Africa's head coach, Rob Walter, who refuted any notion of succumbing under pressure. The experience and composure of Australia's champions from 2015 were evident, particularly in the calm resolve of Mitchell Starc, who alongside his captain, sealed the deal for the Aussies.
Bavuma's decision to bat first for South Africa proved challenging as Starc and Josh Hazlewood stifled the top order, keeping the Proteas at bay for a substantial period. Despite a resilient stand by Miller and Heinrich Klaasen, South Africa struggled under Australia's persistent pressure, with the latter falling victim to a masterstroke from Australia's part-time spinner, Travis Head.
Miller's heroic century kept the contest alive, yet unfortunate dismissals of key players, including Coetzee and himself, marred South Africa's chances. Despite glimpses of hope, missed catches and failed reviews plagued South Africa's efforts, ultimately paving the way for Australia's determined victory.
The same old questions will be raised about the Proteas decision making including playing an out of form skipper, who by his own admission was not fully fit. Other issues would be the decision to bat first in gloomy conditions and failing to throw a punch in the first ten overs. Perhaps a team that are not confident to bat second are deserving of the World Champions title, however their fight should not be questioned.
In the end Australia were too strong and made the correct decision, at the right time. They took full advantage of the conditions and were worthy victors. Starc and Cummins exhibited nerves of steel in the final stretch, securing Australia's place in the World Cup final, where they aim to claim the coveted title for the sixth time. For South Africa, the quest to reach the pinnacle of success remains an elusive pursuit.
Photo: REUTERS/Andrew Boyers
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
The Momentum Multiply Tians will be at home, at SuperSport Park, for their second match in CSA 4 Day Series where they will face off with the HollywoodBets Dolphins.
Both teams are coming off wins in their opening games in the 4 Day Series which will make for an exciting match-up in Centurion. The Titans travelled to Paarl where they were victorious over the GBets Rocks by 6 wickets in their match last week. A victory in your opening match will always bode well for the team during the rest of the campaign.
“It’s very important to start any campaign with a win to gets the Momentum on your side but it’s especially important in a 4 day series because of the nature of 4 day cricket where there’s a lot of draws.” Explained Titans all-rounder Dayyaan Galiem.
Success against the Rocks will boost the team in their second match against the side from KZN but they will know better than anyone the aspects of their game that they can improve on going forward.
While the bowling unit did a fine job in the second innings there were phases when they ventured in search of wickets when sticking to the basics would’ve been a easier option. “There were periods especially after lunch that the wicket died down and got a bit tough to bowl we were a bit adventurous when we should’ve stuck to our plans.” Galiem explained.
Dean Elgar and the work he put in at the crease in the second innings earned the Titans victory in the end but the first innings batting will be an area the Titans want to improve after being 30 odd for no loss and then getting bowled out for 209. “It’s always been good competition when we face the Dolphins and there’s always hard battles especially at SuperSport Park so we’re expecting an awesome encounter with them.” The all-rounder said.
Momentum Multiply Titans Squad to face HollywoodBets Dolphins: Neil Brand (C), Sibonelo Makhanya, Junior Dala, Dean Elgar, Schalk Engelbrecht, Merrick Brett, Rivaldo Moonsamy (W), Dewald Brevis, Donovan Ferreira, Aya Gqamane, Matthew Kleinveldt, Tladi Bokako, Sam Ruwisi, Aaron Phangiso, Musa Twala
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
The Quarter-finals lived up to their promise, delivering a spectacular conclusion. An extraordinary contest, filled with dramatic twists, concluded with French players scattered across the field, torn between despair and exhaustion, as they were denied the opportunity to triumph at their own World Cup.
In a stunning turn of events, South Africa emerged victorious, marking a significant victory for the global south. They now advance to the semi-finals against England, the sole northern team remaining in the tournament. Even the most fervent supporters of the northern teams would concede that their representatives did not display the best of northern rugby.
This weekend's quarter-finals showcased the world's four best teams, creating a clash of titans. The clash between Ireland and New Zealand on Saturday and the match we witnessed on this day would have graced any World Cup final.
The game witnessed the brilliant French, known for their free-flowing style, going head-to-head against the formidable Springbok defense. The pace and intensity of the match from the outset were unmatched, with France setting the tempo.
However, the Springboks, renowned for their resilience, repeatedly thwarted the French with their trademark virtues. Eben Etzebeth's dominating presence around the field, especially menacing Antoine Dupont, left an indelible mark on the game. Damian de Allende and Jesse Kriel, alongside their formidable pack, also disrupted the French midfield.
While France may have won praise for their artistic flair, it was the Springboks who demonstrated the most efficient path to victory. As the clock ticked down, France's relentless pursuit of an expansive running game slowly unraveled, yet they persisted until the final moments.
The match began at a breakneck pace, filled with confidence and hope for the French, who opened the scoring in the fourth minute when Cyril Baille crossed the line after a precise attacking lineout. The first half continued with dramatic shifts in momentum.
While France dictated the game with ball in hand, the Springboks exploited a weakness in the French defense, scoring two tries in 10 minutes. Cobus Reinach's up-and-under led to Kurt-Lee Arendse's breakaway try, followed by Manie Libbok's precise kick and Cameron Woki's inability to gather, allowing De Allende to score South Africa's second try.
The back-and-forth nature of the match continued, with France equalizing shortly after. Antoine Dupont's quick tap penalty set up Peato Mauvaka's try, and Cheslin Kolbe's brilliant block on Thomas Ramos's conversion kept the scores level.
The first half concluded with a yellow card shown to Etzebeth after an accidental head clash, and Ramos's penalty allowed France to take a 22-19 lead into the break.
The second half maintained the thrilling pace, but the French attacks gradually lost their edge. The scoring slowed down, with France only adding another Ramos penalty in the third quarter. South Africa seized control as the match reached its climax.
A break from the scrum disrupted the French defense, and a deep kick forced a desperate chase. Handré Pollard's conversion following Etzebeth's powerful run gave South Africa a one-point lead that held until the final minutes, despite a penalty exchange.
As the clock turned red, France launched one final desperate attack from their half, showcasing brilliance and intensity, but ultimately succumbing to desperation. A knock-on felt inevitable, sealing the Springboks' path to another final.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
Lucknow, Thursday - Quinton de Kock's exceptional batting performance secured South Africa's second successive victory in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, as they defeated Australia by an impressive margin of 134 runs at the BRSABVE Cricket Stadium in Lucknow.
The left-handed maestro, who had previously dazzled with a century in South Africa's opening match against Sri Lanka, continued his remarkable form by scoring 109 runs off 106 balls, comprising 8 fours and 5 sixes, marking his 19th One-Day International (ODI) century. This extraordinary innings, set in motion by Rob Walter's side after being asked to bat first, enabled South Africa to post a total of 311 for seven.
The South African bowlers played their part as well, with Kagiso Rabada taking three crucial wickets for just 33 runs. Lungi Ngidi (1/18), Keshav Maharaj (2/30), and Tabraiz Shamsi (2/38) also displayed their bowling prowess, ultimately dismissing the Australian side for a mere 177 runs with almost ten overs to spare.
The victory proved to be an outstanding achievement for the Proteas, ranking among their finest performances in the history of the tournament. Meanwhile, Australia suffered their most substantial World Cup defeat, adding to South Africa's glory.
This win propelled South Africa to the top of the table, with their next game scheduled against the Netherlands in Dharamsala on Tuesday.
In the match against Australia, South Africa asserted their dominance from the start. Quinton de Kock and captain Temba Bavuma (35) set a strong foundation with a 108-run opening partnership. Rassie van der Dussen (26) then joined forces with de Kock, contributing 50 runs for the next wicket, while also achieving the distinction of becoming the second-fastest batter to reach 2000 international runs, second only to the legendary Hashim Amla.
Although de Kock was dismissed just before the 200-run mark, South Africa managed to set a formidable target of 312 for victory. Aiden Markram, the T20 International captain, played a significant role with his 56 runs off 44 balls, supported by Heinrich Klaasen (29) and Marco Jansen (26).
The South African bowlers made a remarkable improvement over their performance in the previous game against Sri Lanka, consistently taking wickets. Marco Jansen (2/54) removed Mitchell Marsh (7) in the sixth over, while the lethal David Warner (13) fell in the seventh over.
Key batsman Steve Smith (19) was the first victim of Kagiso Rabada, leaving Australia at 50 for three, and Josh Inglis (5) was bowled out by a brilliant delivery from Rabada.
Glenn Maxwell (3) fell to a catch and bowled by Keshav Maharaj, and Marcus Stoinis (5) was caught behind off Rabada, leaving Australia reeling at 70 for six.
Despite this dire situation, Marnus Labuschagne (46) and Mitchell Starc (27) managed to add some respectability to the Australian scoreboard. Tabraiz Shamsi eventually cleaned up the tail, resulting in Australia being bowled out in just 40.5 overs.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
