Thursday turned out be an one other heartbreak for South Africa as Australia crushed their hopes of lifting the ODI World Cup 2023 title. The Proteas confronted a surprising three-wicket defeat towards the Aussies within the semi-final, which turned out to be a low-scoring thriller in Kolkata. Chasing a below-par rating of 213, Australia misplaced saved on shedding wickets at common intervals however Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc held their nerves and took their facet throughout the road with 16 balls to spare.
Notorious for holding the ‘chokers’ tag, South Africa had been one of many sturdy contenders to win the event. Nevertheless, their elimination has now invited some criticism as former South Africa spinner Imran Tahir lashed out at skipper Temba Bavuma for his poor captaincy.
“It’s all about mindset. In case you are going out on the sector, are you going as a warrior? You’re persisting with a bowler who’s bowling 90mph (Coetzee), however you did not hold a slip for him. Then, you concede a 4 from slips once they want 25 runs to win. As a captain, and whilst senior gamers, it is best to know such issues,” Tahir stated on Star Sports activities after the match.
“It is a huge sport, not a standard, bilateral match. Kids do not understand what extra this bunch might’ve achieved. Certain, a South African crew will ultimately attain a remaining. Kids will come. We believed on this crew, they usually will not be the primary heroes to achieve the ultimate. When you hold squandering such possibilities… in the present day, the bottom was full. There are 54 million South Africans who had been behind you. Personally, I am very disenchanted. Give me a South Africa equipment proper now, I am able to combat even at this age,” he added.
Speaking concerning the match, Travis Head starred with bat and ball as Australia arrange a World Cup remaining conflict with India after a tense three-wicket win over South Africa.
Chasing a tough 213 for victory, Australia wobbled after Head hit 62 however Steve Smith (30) and Josh Inglis (28) helped the five-time champions attain their goal with 16 balls to spare.
As Australia reached an eighth World Cup remaining, South Africa had been left to rue a fifth semi-final loss regardless of David Miller’s 101.
Australia slipped to 137-5 after which 193-7 earlier than Mitchell Starc (16) and skipper Pat Cummins (14) saved their nerve to steer the crew house.
(With AFP Inputs)
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