South Africa Defy Pakistan in CWC23, Continuing Path to Semifinals
Published on: October 28, 2023.
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South Africa Triumphs Over Pakistan in Thrilling World Cup Match
In what has been hailed as the best game of the World Cup so far, South Africa narrowly defeated Pakistan by just one wicket. The Proteas successfully chased down a target of 271 runs in Chennai, but not without facing some tense moments.
Aiden Markram led the charge for South Africa and was in control while at the crease. However, his dismissal for 91 triggered a collapse from 235-5 to 250-8. Despite the pressure, the South African tail-enders were tasked with scoring 21 runs against a fired-up Pakistan attack.
Keshav Maharaj and Lungi Ngidi fought hard to bring South Africa closer to victory, but Ngidi was eventually caught by Haris Rauf while attempting to score the crucial runs. With 11 still needed, the tension grew even more intense.
In a nail-biting finale, Pakistan reviewed an lbw decision against number 11 batsman Tabraiz Shamsi off the final ball of Haris’ spell. Despite the ball being shown to be hitting the leg stump, the not-out decision was upheld by the narrowest of margins.
With the pacemen exhausted, Pakistan had to rely on spin once again. But in a stroke of brilliance, Maharaj pulled Mohammad Nawaz for a boundary, securing a thrilling victory for South Africa with 22 balls to spare. This win took South Africa to the top of the World Cup table.
Earlier in the match, South Africa had bowled out Pakistan for 270 runs, thanks largely to a mesmerizing spell of 4-60 by left-arm wrist-spinner Tabraiz Shamsi. This victory against Pakistan was South Africa’s only defeat in six games, and they now sit alongside India at the top of the table with 10 points. However, South Africa holds a higher net run-rate.
South Africa’s next match against New Zealand in Pune on Wednesday will be crucial in determining their chances of securing a spot in the semi-finals. On the other hand, Pakistan faces a difficult path to reach the semi-finals after suffering their fourth defeat in six games. Even if they win their remaining three matches, they will still require some unexpected results to go in their favor.
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