World Cup 2023 [WATCH]: Steve Smith shocked after being given out LBW from a strange review process – AUS vs SA

Australia faced a daunting task of chasing 312 runs against South Africa during their ODI World Cup 2023 clash in Lucknow on Wednesday.

But the Aussies run-chase began on a rocky note as their both openers were dismissed in quick succession within the powerplay. However, Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne held promise for the Australian team due to their track record and proficiency in batting together. Their partnership quickly crossed the 20-run mark, raising expectations for a significant recovery. But, their efforts were hampered when Smith faced Kagiso Rabada in the 10th over.

Steve Smith controversial dismissal

Rabada bowled a delivery that hit Smith’s pads, but the right-hander couldn’t get his bat down in time. The Kookaburra ball struck him on the knee roll, prompting a spirited appeal from the opposition. Umpire Joel Wilson initially remained unmoved, much like Smith, as it appeared the ball might be bouncing over the leg stump and angling too far down the leg side.

As both teams awaited the verdict from Hawk-Eye, a surprising turn of events unfolded. The big screen displayed the ball hitting the top of the leg stump without the typical preceding animations. Rabada was the first to notice this unusual projection and pointed at it with elation, while Smith, with a look of disbelief, remained at the crease, struggling to accept the decision. Even the umpire appeared perplexed as he reluctantly raised his arms to reverse the decision and signalled Smith’s departure back to the pavilion.

Here’s the video:

South Africa posts 311-7 on the scoreboard

Wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock achieved his second consecutive century in the World Cup as South Africa compiled a total of 311-7 in their second group match against Australia.

Also READ: World Cup 2023 – Twitter erupts as South Africa’s Quinton de Kock hammers his second consecutive century during AUS vs SA match

The 30-year-old reached his 19th ODI century in spectacular fashion, requiring just 90 balls and featuring 8 fours and 5 sixes. This remarkable performance followed his century in South Africa’s opening victory against Sri Lanka.

De Kock’s exceptional innings ended at 109 when he was cleaned up by Aussie all-rounder Glenn Maxwell while attempting a reverse sweep in the 35th over.

In addition to De Kock’s outstanding display, middle-order batsman Aiden Markram contributed with a valuable 56 runs to South Africa’s total.

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