![World Cup 2023 [WATCH]: Heinrich Klaasen apologizes to Mark Wood after his wild celebration – ENG vs SA](https://crickettimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Heinrich-Klaasen-and-Mark-Wood-World-Cup-2023.webp "World Cup 2023 [WATCH]: Heinrich Klaasen apologizes to Mark Wood after his wild celebration – ENG vs SA")
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South Africa handed the defending champions England their biggest defeat in ODI World Cup history in Match 20 of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on Saturday.
South Africa’s dominating performance
The Proteas batted first and set a commanding total of 399/7 in their allotted 50 overs. Their innings were marked by some outstanding performances, with Reeza Hendricks contributing 80 runs and Marco Jansen adding 75 to the team’s total.
However, the South African batting lineup star was undoubtedly Heinrich Klaasen, who smashed 109 runs off just 67 balls. Klaasen’s remarkable performance not only helped him reach a century but also played a pivotal role in steering his team to an impressive total.
Chasing a daunting target of 400, England’s batting innings faced consistent setbacks, resembling a collapsing house of cards. South African fast bowlers, mainly Lungi Ngidi (2/26), Jansen (2/35), Kagiso Rabada (1/38), and Gerald Coetzee (3/35), were the architects of this dramatic collapse of the defending champions. Their skilful bowling performance made a mockery of England’s star-studded batting lineup, leading to their defeat.
Also READ: World Cup 2023 – England captain Jos Buttler opens up on devastating loss against South Africa
The peculiar incident between Henrich Klaasen and Mark Wood
A notable incident captured the attention of spectators during the match when Klaasen reached his century. In an unusual celebration, the right-handed batter, in the heat of the moment, directed some choice words towards England pacer Mark Wood.
Demonstrating sportsmanship and realizing his mistake, Klaasen swiftly rectified the situation by offering a sincere apology to Wood. The tension on the field quickly dissipated as the two players exchanged a healthy hand-bump.
This incident highlighted the competitive spirit of the game, as well as the players’ ability to acknowledge their emotions and maintain respect for each other. It served as a reminder that even in high-intensity sporting contests, the spirit of sportsmanship and mutual respect can prevail.
