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Cricket enthusiasts around the world were treated to an exhilarating showdown during the 20th match of the ODI World Cup 2023. The contest went underway at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai and saw South Africa’s batters deliver a masterclass in power-hitting, ultimately posting a formidable total of 399-7 against a beleaguered England side. Heinrich Klaasen‘s blazing century and an outstanding supporting cast left fans in awe as they witnessed an unforgettable batting display.
The dynamic duo of Reeza Hendricks and Rassie van der Dussen sets the stage
The South African innings kicked off in style with the stunning show from the pair of Reeza Hendricks and Rassie van der Dussen. These two powerhouses displayed remarkable skill and composure, laying a rock-solid foundation for the Proteas. Hendricks, in particular, stood out as he notched up a sensational 85 runs from just 75 balls. His clean and precise shots thrilled the fans, setting the tone for an exciting day of cricket.
Meanwhile, Rassie van der Dussen, equally impressive, contributed a well-crafted 60 runs from 61 balls. Their partnership not only built early momentum but also put the English bowlers on notice. The pressure began to mount, and the Proteas had their eyes set on a substantial total.
With the stage set by Hendricks and Van der Dussen, Aiden Markram walked in and took charge. His 42-run contribution further solidified South Africa’s grip on the game. Markram’s ability to rotate the strike and play elegant shots provided vital support to the batting lineup. It was clear that South Africa was on a mission to post a daunting total.
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Heinrich Klaasen and Marco Jansen’s power-hitting fireworks
While the early performers had set a strong foundation, the real fireworks came later in the innings, courtesy of Klaasen and Marco Jansen. In a scintillating display of batting prowess, Klaasen hammered a breathtaking century. He reached 109 runs from just 67 deliveries, which had fans on the edge of their seats. Klaasen’s incredible hitting power was on full display as he propelled South Africa to a dominant position. But the show wasn’t over yet.
Jansen joined the party with a swashbuckling 75 off 42 balls, unleashing his raw power to further torment the England bowlers. Together, Klaasen and Jansen wreaked havoc on the English camp, leaving them searching for answers. The duo’s ruthless hitting propelled South Africa to an imposing total of 399-7 that left the cricketing world in awe.
Reece Topley’s efforts for England
In the face of South Africa’s relentless assault, England’s bowlers were under immense pressure. However, Reece Topley managed to stand out by claiming three crucial wickets.
Here’s how Twitter reacted to the Proteas batter’s onslaught:
Heinrich klaasen must the be the best middle order white ball batter in the world these days … those that Bat between 4-6 btw before you all start mentioning Virat 😜… #cwc2023
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) October 21, 2023
Heinrich Klaasen is a special white ball player. #ENGvRSA
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) October 21, 2023
The weather is brutally sapping in Mumbai. Have seen Klassen drip a literal bucket of sweat in the last hour #ENGvRSA
— Gaurav Kapur (@gauravkapur) October 21, 2023
Heinrich Klassen. What an incredible batter!!! 🙇 #CWC23 #ENGvSA
— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) October 21, 2023
What a player, Heinrich Klaasen! To score a hundred like that in conditions as demanding as these is very special and an illustration of a top player at the height of his game
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) October 21, 2023
An outstanding knock from Heinrich Klaasen 👏#HeinrichKlaasen #SAvENG #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/7nfdStYufV
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) October 21, 2023
Standing ovation for Henrich Klassen. No other ground in the country can match the atmosphere of Wankhede cricket stadium. #ENGvRSA pic.twitter.com/RE8obOxctX
— R A T N I S H (@LoyalSachinFan) October 21, 2023
I can't believe this! I was happy with South Africa reaching even 350 after Miller, this is beyond madness.
— Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) October 21, 2023
South Africa scored the highest total against England in World Cup history. pic.twitter.com/juSwKvFYdA
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) October 21, 2023
Huge score by South Africa – 399/7
Superb Klaasen century 109(67)
Carnage from Jansen 75*(42)#ENGvRSA pic.twitter.com/WBKVSzFBB3— Mohd Abdul Sattar (@SattarFarooqui) October 21, 2023
#HeinrichKlaasen has played an amazing inning today against #England. But match ain't over yet. Back #England to chase down this on a placid #Wankhede pitch. Time for #JossButler show today #ENGvRSA #CWC23
— Ashish Sharma (@ashish0712) October 21, 2023