by: Atika Mehboob TN Sport Pakistan:
South Africa continued their dominating performance in the ICC World Cup, bludgeoning Bangladesh with a crushing 149-run victory, primarily owing to Quinton de Kock’s remarkable 174 off 140 balls, followed by Heinrich Klaasen’s swift 90 from 49 balls.
Although Bangladesh initially restricted South Africa, putting them at a tentative 36 for 2 after eight overs, the situation changed rapidly. Aiden Markram joined de Kock, and the duo, among the most formidable batters this tournament, began steadily edging South Africa ahead. The spinners found themselves neutralized as the scoreboard kept ticking.
Despite Markram’s dismissal, Klaasen’s entry only accelerated the scoring. By the end of the 37th over, the Proteas had just passed 200. But the subsequent onslaught saw them finishing with a massive 382 runs, thanks largely to Klaasen and de Kock’s partnership, which amassed 142 off 87 balls.
Bangladesh’s response was underwhelming. Their opening lacked the intent needed for a mammoth chase. Quick wickets, including the dismissal of key player Shakib Al Hasan, saw them struggling at 31 for 3.
While the middle order failed to stabilize, the tail-enders, led by Mahmudullah’s run-a-ball 111, put up a valiant fight. However, it was insufficient to counter the earlier damage, resulting in them folding for 233.
This victory propelled South Africa to the second spot on the points table, leaving Bangladesh at the bottom.
