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In a spectacular all-round performance, South Africa delivered a crushing defeat to Australia in the fourth ODI, sealing a victory by a staggering 164-run margin. The triumph was the result of a batting masterclass by Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller, combined with an outstanding performance by the pace duo of Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi. However, it wasn’t just Rabada’s skills with the ball that left a mark; his incredible fielding also became a standout moment in the game.
Batting Brilliance: Klaasen and Miller lead the charge
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, South Africa’s Proteas faced a challenging Australian bowling attack. Quinton de Kock and Reeza Hendricks provided a solid start, forging a 64-run opening partnership. Nevertheless, a quick succession of wickets, including the fall of stand-in skipper Aiden Markram, threatened to derail the South African innings.
Amidst the turbulence, Klaasen and Rassie van der Dussen came together to form a resilient partnership of 74 runs, stabilizing the innings at 194. After van der Dussen’s departure, Klaasen joined forces with Miller, and together, they orchestrated an incredible 222-run partnership for the sixth wicket. This exceptional partnership propelled South Africa to a mammoth total of 416 runs.
Also READ: Heinrich Klaasen unleashes 13 towering sixes in his remarkable 174 not out – SA vs AUS 2023, 4th ODI
Australia’s struggle: Carey’s lone battle
Australia’s response, Nonetheless, was far from ideal. Apart from Alex Carey, who fought valiantly to score 99 runs, no other Australian batters could anchor the innings effectively. Despite Carey’s heroic efforts, the Australian batting lineup crumbled in the face of the South African onslaught.
Rabada’s fielding marvel: The turning point
While Rabada’s bowling talent was evident, it was his extraordinary fielding effort that stole the spotlight. At a crucial juncture, with Australia reeling at 233/6 and Carey waging a lone battle, Rabada produced a breathtaking catch in the field. Lungi Ngidi‘s clever slower ball deceived the Nathan Ellis on the 2nd delivery of the 32nd over, who chips it towards the leg-side. Rabada, positioned strategically in the ring, sprinted backward, dove at full stretch, and plucked the ball out of the air with his right hand outstretched. This stunning catch ended Australia’s hopes of a fightback, as there were no proper batters left to support Carey.
Here’s the video:
"Nagam-Nagam fine leg! Ntini fine leg! Nantso mfondini ,,,🤣🙏😁🔥 the isiXhosa commentry crew Never misses #SAvsAUS #NeverMissIt pic.twitter.com/sWfBx99m55
— IMRAN HAIDER 🇮🇳 (@Theimranhaider) September 15, 2023
South Africa levels the series: Final showdown in Johannesburg
As a result of this resounding victory, South Africa successfully leveled the series at 2-2, setting the stage for an exhilarating final showdown. The deciding match will take place on September 17 at The Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg, promising an intense battle for series supremacy.
