In a breathtaking display of power-hitting and precision, South Africa has etched its name into the annals of cricket history with a remarkable performance in the 4th match of the ICC Cricket World Cup. The Proteas faced off against Sri Lanka under the floodlights in Delhi and delivered an astonishing total of 428/5, making it the highest-ever score in the history of the ODI World Cup.
Masterclass from Aiden Markram in the World Cup
The standout performer of the match was undoubtedly Aiden Markram, who earned the well-deserved title of “Player of the Match.” Markram’s scintillating century scored at an incredible strike rate of 196.29, proved to be the cornerstone of South Africa’s monumental innings. His 106 runs off just 54 balls included 14 boundaries and 3 towering sixes, leaving the Sri Lankan bowlers gasping for answers.
Stats from #SAvsSL World Cup match
(Thread🧵)(1/n) #WorldCup2023 pic.twitter.com/zkEHAPd6NF
— Ram Garapati (@srk0804) October 7, 2023
Markram received crucial support from the top order. Quinton de Kock, who played a magnificent innings of 100 runs off 84 deliveries, set the tone for the Proteas. His partnership with Rassie van der Dussen (108 runs off 110 balls) laid a solid foundation, with both batsmen crafting brilliant centuries.
With Heinrich Klaasen (32*) and David Miller (39*) providing the finishing touches, South Africa’s innings was a masterclass in aggressive yet controlled batting. The team’s total of 428/5 in 50 overs was a testament to their dominance throughout the innings.
Sri Lanka’s Inning
Facing a daunting target of 429 runs to win, Sri Lanka’s top order succumbed to the pressure, losing early wickets. Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Perera fell early, both dismissed by Marco Jansen.
However, Kusal Mendis (76 off 42 balls) and Charith Asalanka (79 off 65 balls) showed commendable fighting spirit, stitching together a crucial partnership. Their aggressive stroke play and ability to find the boundaries kept Sri Lanka in the hunt for a while.
RECORD BREAKING INNINGS by South Africa today vs Sri Lanka.
– Fastest WC century.
– First team with 3 centurions in the same innings of a WC.
– Highest ever WC score.
– Most times registered 400+ totals in WC.#IccCricketWorldCup2023 | #SAvsSL pic.twitter.com/VIAgmkBAfb— î (@ixxcric) October 7, 2023
Dasun Shanaka, the Sri Lankan skipper, also made a significant contribution with his brilliant 68 off 62 balls. But, the ever-mounting required run rate and the loss of wickets at regular intervals made it an uphill battle for the island nation.
In the end, Sri Lanka finished their innings at 326, falling short by 102 runs. The South African bowlers shared the spoils, with Gerald Coetzee leading the way with three wickets.
Historic Milestone in World Cup
South Africa’s record-breaking score of 428/5 not only secured them a resounding victory but also etched their name in the history books of the ODI World Cup. This monumental achievement showcases the team’s prowess in limited-overs cricket and sends a clear message to their competitors in the tournament.
The Proteas will undoubtedly carry the momentum of this historic win into their upcoming matches in the ICC Cricket World Cup, while Sri Lanka will look to regroup and come back stronger in their next encounter.
