The Proteas’ middle order put in an innings-saving performance, with Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller continuing where Kyle Verreynne left off.
Verreynne solidified the Proteas innings after a top-order collapse saw them lose 3 wickets for 48 runs.
Verreynne, on his debut, worked hard running between the wickets to build his side’s momentum and pull them after a serious spot of bother.
Sitting outside in the newly built media tent, it was a chance for me to soak up the atmosphere to its fullest. I could feel the hope spread through the crowd.
After a hard-fought 64-ball 48, Kyle pulled the ball straight to Mitch Marsh. A sigh of sadness spread through the crowd as they shouted words of encouragement and applauded with appreciation at what he had done.
From there on out, Klaasen took over. He managed to score his maiden century. And with the help of a David Miller half-century, took the Proteas past 250.
Klaasen showed his ability to take the game by the scruff of the neck and push the side forward.
Miller backed his partner hitting 4 fours and a six before losing his wicket, which gave Australia the chance to drag back the run rate and squeeze the total.
Klaasen finished with an unbeaten 123 off 114 balls, 7 fours and 3 sixes.
The Proteas ended on 291/7 after their 50 overs.
Photo: Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix
