Image Source: AFP
[Saba Sports News] South Africa edged out a resilient USA team by 18 runs in a gripping Super 8 match of Group 2 in the T20 World Cup 2024 at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium on June 19.
Aiden Markram’s men faced a tough challenge against a determined American side. Batting first, South Africa posted 194 for 4 in their 20 overs, with Quinton de Kock’s blistering 74 off 40 balls setting the foundation. Although Reeza Hendricks struggled, managing only 11 runs, Markram’s solid 46 off 32 balls kept the momentum going. Despite a middle-order wobble, with David Miller falling for a golden duck, quick-fire contributions from Heinrich Klaasen and Tristan Stubbs pushed the total to 194.
For the USA, Saurabh Netravalkar stood out with 2 wickets for 21 runs, while Harmeet Singh took 2 crucial wickets, keeping the South African total in check.
Chasing 195, the USA lost three early wickets, including the in-form Aaron Jones for a duck. Wicketkeeper-batsman Andries Gous led the resistance with an unbeaten 80 off 47 balls. Harmeet Singh provided support, forming a crucial partnership with Gous, but his departure in the penultimate over sealed the USA’s fate.
Kagiso Rabada was instrumental for South Africa, with figures of 3 for 18 in 4 overs, including a decisive penultimate over. Despite the USA’s spirited performance, South Africa’s quality attack proved too strong, earning them a hard-fought victory and underlining the competitiveness of the T20 World Cup.