South Africa moved closer to securing a semi-final berth in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup with a thrilling seven-run victory over defending champions England in their Super 8 clash on Friday at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground.
Put in to bat first, South Africa got off to a solid start with an 86-run opening partnership between Quinton de Kock and Reeza Hendricks. De Kock hammered his second consecutive half-century, scoring 65 off 38 balls, while Hendricks contributed 19.
The innings saw some slowdown in the middle overs, but a late cameo from David Miller, who scored 43 off 28 balls, helped South Africa post a competitive total of 163 for six.
England’s chase stumbles
England’s chase got off to a shaky start as they lost opener Phil Salt early. The subsequent dismissals of Jos Buttler (17) and Jonny Bairstow (16) left England in trouble. However, a 78-run partnership between Harry Brook (53) and Liam Livingstone (33) revived their hopes.
Despite their efforts, England’s lack of aggressive intent early in their innings proved costly. With only three fours and one six in the first 11 overs, they struggled to keep up with the required run rate.
Needing 14 runs off the final over, England fell short as South African pacer Anrich Nortje bowled a tight last over, sealing the win for his team. Nortje’s disciplined bowling and the pressure of the final over saw England unable to reach the target, finishing their innings at 156 for six.
South Africa now leads their group with four points from two matches. England, with two points, remains in contention for a semi-final spot. They will face the United States in Barbados on Sunday, while South Africa will take on hosts West Indies on the same day.
