South Africa’s Quinton de Kock and Rassie van der Dussen showcased their batting prowess with remarkable centuries, guiding their team to an imposing total of 357/4 in a thrilling World Cup match against New Zealand in Pune. This performance marked the eighth consecutive time that South Africa surpassed the 300-run mark while batting first this year.
Despite losing the toss, South Africa faced a formidable spell from New Zealand’s Trent Boult during the early overs of the World Cup match, which resulted in the dismissal of Temba Bavuma. South Africa’s captain showed promise against Matt Henry, unleashing a couple of elegant drives and a towering six, but Boult’s delivery forced an edge to the slip, ending Bavuma’s innings.
It was then that Rassie van der Dussen joined Quinton de Kock at the crease, and the duo proceeded to construct an extraordinary 200-run partnership for the second wicket, establishing a new record for South Africa against New Zealand in ODIs. During this partnership, De Kock achieved his fourth century of this World Cup edition, and his 21st century overall in ODIs.
De Kock’s century was not without its challenges, as he survived a challenging dropped catch by Glenn Phillips at backward point when he was only at 12 runs. Nevertheless, he reached his century off 103 balls, exhibiting increasing control and finesse in his batting. Van der Dussen, his partner in the middle, encountered his share of luck on his way to his second century of this World Cup and his sixth in the ODI format.
Van der Dussen was notably dropped twice in the same over by Jimmy Neesham, first at 68 runs and then again at 72. However, he continued to accumulate runs with confidence and eventually achieved his century off 101 balls. Unfortunately, his innings was terminated when Tim Southee dismissed him for 133 in the 18th over, but his 118-ball contribution greatly bolstered South Africa’s total.
Thanks to the magnificent efforts of De Kock and Van der Dussen, South Africa managed to accumulate a staggering 190 runs during the second PowerPlay (11-40 overs), laying the foundation for explosive hitting in the death overs. The responsibility for the late onslaught was shouldered by Van der Dussen and David Miller, with Miller striking 2 fours and 4 sixes in his 30-ball 53. His dismissal in the final over was orchestrated by a brilliant catch from Daryl Mitchell in the deep.
South Africa concluded their innings by adding 119 runs in the last ten overs. New Zealand faced an even greater challenge with the unavailability of Matt Henry, who sustained a right hamstring injury during his second spell and was ruled out for the remainder of the game.
In summary, South Africa amassed a formidable total of 357/4 in their allotted 50 overs, with Van der Dussen scoring 133 and De Kock contributing 114 runs. Tim Southee was the standout bowler for New Zealand with figures of 2-77. This gripping encounter promises more excitement in the World Cup.
Disclaimer: The prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned, and make your own decision.
