South Africa did not seem to be in great shape before the CWC 2023. They looked a little bit unsettled and had batting order issues. Those issues came ashore in their match against Netherlands, in a shocking defeat. England, on the other hand, came into CWC 2023 as Champions of CWC 2019 and in great form. Both the teams have lost to Netherlands and Afghanistan, respectively. South Africa needed to win against England and vice versa. Well, South Africa crushed England in a one-sided game.
In this match, Ben Stokes came into side for England and South Africa dropped Temba Bavuma. England won the toss and elected to field first on a batting pitch. They believe their batting is their biggest strength and hence, wanted to chase the big score.
South Africa started off by losing Quinton de Kock, who has experience of opening in Mumbai for Mumbai. But they found Reeza Hendricks(85), Rassie van der Dussen(60) and captain Aiden Markram(42) steadying the ship. In the middle, England bowlers pulled things back with quick wickets. Then, South Africa found real game changers with a strong finish.
David Miller could not make any impact. But Marco Jansen joined Heinrich Klassen and smashed England bowlers all over the park. Both have put on 151 runs partnership in 12.3 overs. From 243/5 in 36.3 overs, their partnership took South Africa to 394/6.
Heinrich Klassen showcased his hitting prowess and scored a century in 61 balls. Marco Jansen smacked out the death bowling off England and scored 75. Heinrich Klassen with 109(67) finished the match for South Africa and pulled the life out of England.
With an exact 400 target in chase, England never looked settled. After losing 8 wickets for 100, they found Gus Atkinson(35) and Mark Wood(43) connecting some lusty blows. South Africa did not allow them to continue their onslaught for many overs. But they would be disappointed as they could have easily increased the margin of victory.
South Africa bowled out England for 170 and won the match by 229 runs. After this win, their NRR has improved but they are still stationed at No.3 position with 6 points. England has dropped to 9th position after Sri Lanka. Looks like their high hopes have been smashed to ground. Table toppers India and New Zealand will take on each other on Sunday.