In a thrilling ICC World Cup contest held in Pune, India, South Africa set a formidable total of 357 runs on the board, guided by stellar performances from Quinton de Kock, Van der Dussen, and David Miller.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, South African openers Quinton de Kock and Bavuma cautiously started their innings, showing restraint in the initial six overs. However, in the 9th over, the Proteas lost their first wicket when captain Bavuma was dismissed for 24, leaving the score at 38.
Van der Dussen, who came in as the third batter, joined de Kock, and together they not only stabilized the innings but also accelerated the run rate. Both batsmen reached their half-centuries and continued to build a strong partnership, denying the New Zealand bowlers any breakthroughs. Despite creating some catching opportunities, the Black Caps’ fielders were unable to convert them into wickets.
The South African duo maintained a run rate of above six runs per over, with de Kock reaching his fourth century of the tournament, establishing himself as the leading run-scorer. In the 40th over, New Zealand finally managed to dismiss de Kock for 114, with three sixes and 10 boundaries in his innings. South Africa’s total stood at 238 for 2 at that stage, with Miller replacing de Kock.
Meanwhile, Van der Dussen continued his excellent innings, eventually reaching a remarkable century. Following his century, he and Miller accelerated the scoring, pushing the total past the 300-run mark.
In the 48th over, New Zealand’s Tim Southee dismissed Van der Dussen with a slower delivery, ending his superb innings at 133. At that point, South Africa was 316 for 3 in 47.1 overs, with Miller and Klaasen at the crease. In the final five overs, Miller played a blazing inning of 53 off 30 balls, while Klaasen contributed 15 runs. South Africa finished with a total of 357 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in their allotted 50 overs.
Tim Southee was the most successful bowler for New Zealand, taking 2 wickets for 77 runs in his 10-over spell. Trent Boult and Neasham chipped in with one wicket each for the Black Caps. The stage is set for an exciting chase as New Zealand looks to respond to South Africa’s formidable target.