in a thrilling semi-final, Australia narrowly defeated South Africa in the Cricket World Cup securing their spot in the final where they will face India
in a thrilling semi-final, Australia narrowly defeated South Africa, winning the second semifinal of the World Cup by three wickets. This sets up an eagerly anticipated final against hosts India in Ahmedabad on Sunday. Despite a valiant effort from South Africa’s David Miller, who crafted a remarkable 116-ball 101, Australia’s dominant performance led them to their eighth consecutive win in the tournament.
Travis Head and David Warner made a blistering start for Australia, but the Proteas, led by Temba Bavuma’s strategic move to introduce Aiden Markram, managed to take crucial wickets early on. The spin duo of Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi added pressure on the Aussies, claiming key wickets, including that of Travis Head. Steve Smith and Josh Inglis resurrected the innings, but Gerald Coetzee’s timely dismissals kept the game on a knife’s edge.
Despite some missed opportunities by the Proteas, Australia ultimately sealed the victory with unbeaten contributions from Pat Cummins and Mitchell. Earlier, David Miller’s heroic century had lifted South Africa to a competitive total of 212 after a shaky start.
Australia’s pace duo, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, wreaked havoc in the early stages of South Africa’s innings, leaving them struggling at 24/4. A crucial partnership between Miller and Heinrich Klaasen steadied the ship, but Australia struck back with timely wickets.
The outcome marked the end of Quinton de Kock’s ODI career, as he had previously announced his decision to focus on T20 leagues post-World Cup. For South Africa, the disappointment of knockout exits in previous years continued, while Australia earned another shot at the World Cup title.
Brief score: South Africa: 212 all out in 49.4 overs (David Miller 101, Heinrich Klaasen 47; Pat Cummins 3/51, Mitchell Starc 3/34, Josh Hazlewood 2/12). Australia: 215/7 in 47.2 overs (Travis Head 62; Tabraiz Shamsi 2/42, Gerald Coetzee 2/47, Keshav Maharaj 1/24).
