Quinton de Kock struck a dominant captain’s century and with the help from a defiant Temba Bavuma 98, showed the Proteas’ intent as they smashed the World Champions, England, by 7-wickets, writes Khalid Mohidin.
The ground was sold out and buzzing in the Cape Town heat, as a rejuvenated and reenergized Proteas side took the challenge to England.
Tabraiz Shamsi, looking leaner and fitter after his high-performance fitness camp, was in fine form.
He took the prized wicket of England captain Eoin Morgan, debutant Tom Banton and talented England all-rounder Sam Curran. He was also involved with Rassie van der Dussen’s run out of Joe Root.
England struggled to find runs as partnerships continued to break starting with Jason Roy’s wicket courtesy of Jon-Jon Smuts. Jonny Bairstow was next to fall, to Andile Phehlukwayo, as England lost their openers for 53 in just over 10 overs.
England recovered beautifully taking their side to 222 when Lutho Sipamla on debut struck to remove the dangerous Chris Woakes and reduce them to 222/7 and breaking a 91-run stand.
It was heart-warming to see his family rejoice in the stands on the big screen, matching his vibrant celebration.
The highest total chased was 258/7 against New Zealand in 2000/2001.
England set 258/8.
Quinton de Kock led the way for the Proteas, playing a captain’s knock in a 173-run stand with Temba Bavuma, who once again showed his capabilities in the white-ball format.
The pair ran 74 singles and 11 two’s in a record highest second-wicket stand against England for South Africa.
De Kock was brilliant in his approach, included 11 fours and 1 six, backing up his statement that England are just another team.
After De Kock’s dismissal to Joe Root on 107, Bavuma took charge.
Scoring at almost a run a ball, Bavuma, edged the Proteas closer to that winning target.
Hearts must have sunk amongst all Proteas fans, as Bavuma was trapped plum in front of his stumps on 98, after four beautiful 4’s and two scrumptious sixes.
Rassie van der Dussen (38*) and Jon-Jon Smuts took the Proteas over the line. As the Proteas proved a point against the best ODI team in the world.
Photo: Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix
