In a low-scoring encounter at New York’s Nassau County Worldwide Cricket Stadium on Monday, June 4, South Africa emerged victorious over Sri Lanka by six wickets of their group stage match of the T20 World Cup 2024. The Proteas’ bowlers performed an important position in dismantling the Sri Lankan batting lineup, bundling them out for a mere 77 runs.
Keshav Maharaj’s dominance with the ball
South Africa’s determination to bowl first paid off handsomely as their bowlers put up a commanding efficiency. The powerplay yielded solely 24 runs for Sri Lanka, setting the tone for a dominant show by the Proteas. The standout performer was left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj, who performed a pivotal position in dismantling the Sri Lankan center order.
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Maharaj got here into the assault proper after the powerplay, conceding simply six runs off his first over. His second over proved to be much more impactful, as he dismissed Sri Lankan captain Wanindu Hasaranga for a two-ball duck, stumped whereas making an attempt to tackle the spinner. Maharaj struck once more off the very subsequent ball, eradicating Sadeera Samarawickrama, who chopped the ball onto his stumps whereas making an attempt a lower shot. This double strike left Sri Lanka reeling at 32/4 within the ninth over. Maharaj completed his spell with spectacular figures of two/22.
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Anrich Nortje’s spectacular spell for South Africa
Anrich Nortje additional compounded Sri Lanka’s woes with an exceptional bowling efficiency. Nortje delivered a deadly spell, ending with envious figures of 4/7 in 4 overs. His fiery tempo and precision had been an excessive amount of for the Sri Lankan batters to deal with. Consequently, Sri Lanka was bowled out for his or her lowest complete in T20 cricket, managing solely 77 runs in 19.1 overs. Kusal Mendis was the top-scorer for Sri Lanka, contributing 19 runs off 30 balls.
South Africa’s chase
Chasing a modest goal of 78, South Africa achieved the required runs with the lack of 4 wickets. The Proteas, led by Aiden Markram, displayed composure and talent to notch up the victory. Regardless of dropping a number of wickets, the goal was by no means out of attain, and South Africa secured the win comfortably.
