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In an electrifying display of power-hitting, South Africa batter Heinrich Klaasen left an indelible mark on the fourth ODI against Australia in Centurion.
After a couple of quieter outings earlier in the series, Klaasen unleashed a breathtaking performance, smashing an extraordinary 174 runs from a mere 84 balls. This monumental innings included an astonishing 13 fours and an equal number of sixes, steering South Africa to a colossal first innings total of 416/5. Klaasen’s record-breaking display propelled him to the annals of South African cricket history.
Klaasen’s heroics in a Temba Bavuma-less South Africa:
In the absence of captain Temba Bavuma, South Africa found themselves facing a daunting challenge as they were put in to bat by Australia. The responsibility fell on the shoulders of Quinton de Kock and Rezza Hendricks to provide a solid start to the Proteas innings. Remarkably, the duo delivered, forging a promising opening partnership worth 64 runs. However, once Hendricks departed, Australia managed to make inroads into the South African lineup, reducing them to a precarious 120/3. Among the key casualties was the wicket of stand-in captain Aiden Markram, setting the stage for Klaasen’s unforgettable heroics.
Klaasen’s innings didn’t start with a blaze of fireworks. Instead, he took his time to settle in, showing remarkable composure. Nevertheless, once he found his groove, there was no stopping him. The 32-year-old embarked on an explosive spree, dismantling the Australian bowlers with breathtaking strokes. His partnership with Rassie van der Dussen yielded 74 runs in just nine overs, showcasing his ability to accelerate when needed. Yet, final showdown came in the form of a colossal 222-run partnership for the sixth wicket with David Miller. Klaasen’s innings concluded in the last ball of the South African innings, leaving an indelible mark on the match.
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The dismantling of Australia’s bowling lineup:
Heinrich Klaasen’s onslaught against the Australian bowlers left a trail of destruction. The likes of Adam Zampa, Marcus Stoinis, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Ellis were left reeling as the Pretoria-born cricketer punished them relentlessly. Zampa, in particular, bore the brunt, conceding a staggering 113 runs from his 10 overs. This exceptional performance highlighted Klaasen’s ability to exploit the bowling conditions and seize control of the game.
Records tumble under Klaasen’s assault:
Heinrich Klaasen’s breathtaking innings not only propelled South Africa to a commanding position but also etched his name in the record books. His score of 174 ranks as the eighth-highest by a South African batter in men’s ODIs. Furthermore, his tally of 13 sixes in a single innings stands as the second-highest by a South African batter in ODIs, trailing only AB de Villiers, who achieved 16 sixes against West Indies in Johannesburg in 2015. The wicketkeeper-born cricketer’s explosive century also etched him into the history of South African ODI cricket, marking it as the joint-fifth fastest century by a Protea batter.
Australia’s battle and Carey’s lone fight:
In response to South Africa’s mammoth total, Australia faced an uphill battle. Despite consistent setbacks, Alex Carey displayed remarkable resilience. Joining the fray when Australia were reeling at 87/3, Carey stood as a lone warrior, nearly reaching a century with his composed 99. His partnerships, including a crucial 72-run stand with Tim David, provided fleeting moments of hope. Nonetheless, the formidable Kagiso Rabada eventually dismissed Carey, and Australia’s innings concluded at 252 within 35 overs.
South Africa’s resurgence: Levelling the series at 2-2
With this remarkable victory, South Africa bounced back vigorously after losing the first two games of the series. They not only won the third ODI but also dominated the fourth, setting the stage for a series decider. The final showdown will take place at The Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg on Sunday, September 17, promising an enthralling conclusion to the fiercely contested series.
