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The T20 World Cup 2024 witnessed a notably low-scoring match between Sri Lanka and South Africa, which turned out to be significant not just for the result but for a record-setting performance in terms of dot balls. Sri Lanka, batting first, could only manage a meager total of 77 runs before being bowled out. South Africa, while chasing this modest target, also faced difficulties but ultimately secured the win. This match stood out because it featured an unprecedented number of dot balls – 127 in total – the highest ever recorded in the history of the Men’s T20 World Cup.
Record setting performance by Sri Lanka and South Africa:
Sri Lanka’s innings began with a struggle against the formidable South African bowling attack. Winning the toss and opting to bat, the Sri Lankan team was unable to build any substantial partnerships, succumbing to South Africa’s disciplined bowling. The entire team was dismissed for just 77 runs in 19.1 overs. The South African bowlers received much praise for their tight and effective bowling, contributing significantly to the high number of dot balls.
When South Africa came out to bat, the chase, though seemingly straightforward, was not without its challenges. South African batters found it hard to score freely against the Sri Lankan bowlers, mirroring the struggles faced by their opponents. Nevertheless, they managed to reach the target, scoring 78 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 16.2 overs. The South African team’s perseverance in a tricky chase underlined their capability to handle pressure situations. This match not only resulted in a win for South Africa but also etched its name in the record books for having the most dot balls in any T20 World Cup match to date.
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Top 5 T20 world cup matches with the highest dot ball count:
Reflecting on the top five matches with the most dot balls in T20 World Cup history provides further insight into how disciplined bowling and defensive batting strategies can shape the outcome of a game. Here are those notable matches:
- Sri Lanka vs South Africa – 127 Dot Balls: In this match from the T20 World Cup 2024, Sri Lanka, after electing to bat first, was bowled out for just 77 runs. South Africa’s response was equally sluggish but effective, achieving the target of 78/4 in 16.2 overs. This match saw a record 127 dot balls, highlighting the intense pressure exerted by both bowling units.
- Namibia vs Oman – 123 Dot Balls: Another match from the T20 World Cup 2024 saw Namibia and Oman facing off in a nail-biting contest. Oman batted first, scoring 109 runs in 19.4 overs. Namibia’s innings mirrored Oman’s effort, also scoring 109 runs, resulting in a tie. The game proceeded to a Super Over, where Namibia scored 21 runs while Oman could only manage 10. The match featured a total of 123 dot balls, underlining the effectiveness of the bowlers from both sides.
- South Africa vs India – 123 Dot Balls: This match took place during the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007. India, batting first, set a target of 153 runs. South Africa’s chase faltered, with the team managing only 116 runs for the loss of 9 wickets. The match witnessed 123 dot balls, emphasizing the control exercised by the bowlers.
- Netherlands vs Zimbabwe – 121 Dot Balls: In the T20 World Cup 2022, the match between the Netherlands and Zimbabwe was another example of tight bowling. Zimbabwe, batting first, scored 117 runs. The Netherlands successfully chased this down, scoring 120/5. This match included 121 dot balls, reflecting the disciplined bowling and cautious batting approach.
- Namibia vs Scotland – 118 Dot Balls: During the T20 World Cup 2021 in Abu Dhabi, Namibia and Scotland played a closely contested match. Scotland batted first, posting 109 runs. Namibia, in reply, scored 115/6, winning the match. A total of 118 dot balls were bowled, showcasing the effectiveness of the bowlers in controlling the game.
