In a commanding performance in Lucknow, the Proteas demonstrated their growing confidence and potential for Cricket World Cup success. Following a strong start to the tournament with an initial win, South Africa triumphed once more, this time against Australia.
For the second consecutive match, South Africa found themselves on the wrong side of the coin toss and were asked to bat first. Nonetheless, they rose to the challenge, with Quinton de Kock leading the charge by scoring an impressive 109 runs from 106 balls, contributing to South Africa’s total of 311 for 7. Aiden Markram, who had previously claimed the record for the fastest century in World Cup history, added a well-played 56 runs to the tally.
De Kock and Temba Bavuma established a solid opening partnership, putting on 108 runs for the first wicket, before Bavuma was dismissed for 35 runs. The late innings, however, did not yield the biggest scores as Australia managed to contain power-hitters Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller. Nevertheless, a target of 311 runs posed a significant challenge for the Australian side.
In the chase, Kagiso Rabada found his form at a crucial moment, teaming up with Marco Jansen to secure early wickets, putting Australia on the back foot. Every Proteas bowler contributed with a wicket, ultimately bowling Australia out for just 177 runs, resulting in a resounding 134-run victory for South Africa.
Captain Quinton de Kock attributed their success to a thorough understanding of the Lucknow pitch. After the match, he commented, “A great win for the boys, assessed conditions well, played accordingly, stuck to our strengths and came out on top. They were potent up front, so we assessed our scoring options. Definitely thought it was above-par, seen from the Lucknow team it gets harder at night and it did prove that. It was sweaty and humid, but the bowlers bowled with intensity, didn’t give them a sniff up front. We are pretty pleased with ourselves, but only two games in, anything can happen, and quickly, won’t get too high, just take it game by game.”
