In a tense showdown at Eden Gardens, South Africa faced yet another heartbreak in the 2023 World Cup, succumbing to a tight three-wicket loss against Australia in Kolkata. Despite David Miller’s resilient century, Australia overcame challenges during the chase, securing a memorable victory at the iconic venue.
South Africa’s hopes took an early blow as they encountered a batting collapse, with the scoreboard reading a dismal 24/4 after the Proteas opted to bat under ominous grey skies. The Powerplay witnessed a meagre 18 runs, marking the lowest total in this World Cup. The disappointing duck from Temba Bavuma set the tone, and poor shot selections further compounded the Proteas’ struggles.
While Heinrich Klaasen (47) and David Miller aimed to rebuild the innings, their efforts faced a setback when Travis Head dismissed Klaasen in the 31st over. The Proteas fought hard, but their inability to capitalize on partnerships proved costly in the end.
Former South African spinner Imran Tahir, in a passionate post-match rant, criticized the team’s performance, particularly questioning Bavuma’s decision-making as captain. Tahir expressed frustration at the team treating the crucial game like a bilateral series match, emphasizing the importance of a warrior mindset in such high-stakes encounters.
“It is all about mindset. If you are going out on the field, are you going as a warrior? You are persisting with a bowler who’s bowling 90mph (Coetzee), but you didn’t keep a slip for him. Then, you concede a four from slips when they need 25 runs to win. As a captain, and even as senior players, you should know such things,” Tahir said on Star Sports following the game.
“This is a big game, not a normal, bilateral match. Youngsters don’t realize what more this bunch could’ve done. Sure, a South African team will eventually reach a final. Youngsters will come. We believed in this team, and they won’t be the first heroes to reach the final. If you keep squandering such chances… today, the ground was full. There are 54 million South Africans who were behind you. I’m very disappointed. Give me a South Africa kit right now; I’m ready to fight even at this age,” Tahir further explained.
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Australia’s victory marked the third time they ended South Africa’s World Cup campaign in the semi-finals, with previous instances in 1999 and 2007. The Australians now gear up to face the formidable Indian side in the tournament final. India, led by Rohit Sharma, enters the title clash unbeaten in the ongoing edition, setting the stage for an exhilarating battle for World Cup glory.
