An outstanding bowling performance by Anrich Nortje and solid batting by South Africa led to their victory over Sri Lanka in the fourth match of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 at Nassau International Cricket Stadium on Monday.
Chasing a target of 78 runs, South Africa faced an early setback as opener Reez Hendricks departed in the second over after scoring 4 runs off 2 balls.
Proteas skipper Aiden Markram came in next but was dismissed after scoring just 12 runs in 14 balls in the fifth over.
Despite the early wickets, South Africa reached the fifty-run mark in 10.3 overs with Quinton De Kock’s contribution.
However, De Kock fell after scoring 20 runs in 27 balls in the same over.
South Africa lost their fourth wicket in the 13th over when Tristan Stubbs was dismissed for 13 runs.
David Miller and Heinrich Klaasen guided South Africa to victory in 16.2 overs with six wickets in hand.
Sri Lanka’s bowling attack was led by Wanindu Hasaranga, who took two wickets, while Nuwan Thushara and Dasun Shanaka claimed one wicket each.
In the first innings, Sri Lanka struggled to build a strong total as their batsmen fell victim to South Africa’s pace attack.
Anrich Nortje picked up four crucial wickets for just seven runs, supported by Kagiso Rabada and Keshav Maharaj who claimed two wickets each.
Ottneil Baartman also contributed with a wicket as Sri Lanka were bowled out for 77 runs in 19.1 overs.
South Africa chased down the target comfortably, finishing at 80/4 in 16.2 overs, with De Kock top-scoring with 20 runs and Klaasen unbeaten on 19.
The match saw an impressive performance from South Africa’s bowling unit, securing their victory in the tournament.
