Kolkata, Nov 16 (The Street Press India) – South Africa, even though they were considered one of the top teams in the World Cup 2023, faced a familiar problem of struggling in important moments. This time, it happened at the Eden Gardens. Australia, trying to chase a score of 213, barely pulled off a win on a tricky pitch in Kolkata. They secured the semi-final victory by just three wickets.
Before, the main hero for South Africa was David Miller. He played a solid innings, scoring 101 runs off 116 balls, rescuing South Africa after they lost four quick wickets against the Kangaroos and helping them reach a total of 212.
Miller showcased his skills with eight fours and five sixes during his rescue performance. He reached his century with a powerful shot over deep midwicket off Australian captain Pat Cummins but unfortunately got out just two balls later.
Choosing to bat after winning the toss, South Africa faced a tough beginning, losing both openers Quinton de Kock and Temba Bavuma with just eight runs on the board by the sixth over.
Rassie van der Dussen and Aiden Markram also had short innings, and South Africa found themselves in a tough spot at 24/4 by the 12th over.
Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood played key roles in disrupting South Africa’s innings early on, causing significant trouble for the batting side.
Miller and Heinrich Klaasen formed a crucial partnership, adding 95 runs to stabilize South Africa’s innings. However, Australia managed to break this partnership by dismissing Klaasen through Travis Head.
