In a thrilling encounter at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, South Africa emerged victorious against Bangladesh in the ICC Cricket World Cup.
Quinton de Kock scored 174 as South Africa posted a formidable total of 382-5 in their allotted 50 overs, setting a challenging target for the Bangladesh team.
The South African innings was anchored by a breathtaking display of batting prowess by their opener Quinton de Kock, in his 150th ODI. He was in sublime form, scoring a remarkable 174 runs off just 140 deliveries. His innings was a masterclass in timing, placement, and power-hitting, as he punished the Bangladeshi bowlers all around the park. De Kock’s knock featured a multitude of boundaries and sixes, thrilling the crowd with his strokes. His partnership with Aiden Markram laid a solid foundation for South Africa.
Aiden Markram, who scored 60 runs off 69 balls, played a crucial supporting role alongside De Kock, adding stability to the innings. The pair constructed a strong 131-run partnership to set the tone for South Africa’s innings.
Heinrich Klaasen continued where Klaasen left off. His aggressive approach saw him amass an impressive 90 runs off just 49 deliveries. His ability to find the gaps and dispatch the ball to the boundaries was nothing short of remarkable. His partnership with De Kock was remarkable. The pair put on 142 from 87 deliveries.
David Miller then added a quickfire 34 runs off 15 balls, propelling South Africa’s total to 382-5.
South Africa’s innings received a significant boost in the final 10 overs. They managed to accumulate a staggering 144 runs, largely thanks to the power-hitting prowess of David Miller and a late flourish from Klaasen. The Bangladeshi bowlers were put under immense pressure as South Africa launched an all-out assault on their bowling unit.
The Proteas bowlers as they did all tournament, were brilliant at dismissing the top order of the opposition cheaply. Bangladesh only managed to 122 for the loss of 7 wickets. Mahmudullah, however, fought back and managed to score 111 off 111 balls to take his team to 227.
Bangladesh were bowled out for 233 as the Proteas completed the victory by 149 runs.
Gerald Coetzee was the top wicket-taker and took 3-62. The rest of the pacers took 2 wickets each while Maharaj contributed one.
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