In the first of the five-match ODI series between South Africa and Australia at Mangaung Oval, a dramatic run-out incident left cricket fans on the edge of their seats. Rassie van der Dussen, the talented South African batter, was involved in a mix-up with his captain, Temba Bavuma, resulting in a crucial run-out that had a significant impact on the game.
The incident occurred during the 12th over of the first innings, after Australia won the toss and opted to field first. South Africa lost the wicket of opening batter Quinton de Kock early; therefore the partnership between van der Dussen and Bavuma was crucial for their chances to post a competitive total on the scoreboard.
Van der Dussen (8), who was struggling for runs even after facing 16 deliveries, tapped a delivery from Australia’s star fast bowler Sean Abbott towards the off side. The batsmen set off for a quick single, but a miscommunication between van der Dussen and Bavuma resulted in both batters almost ending up at the same end. Though van der Dussen made an attempt to return to his crease but he failed to do so as the Australia wicketkeeper Alex Carey collected the ball and quickly dislodged the bails.
The big screen replayed the mix-up, showing the confusion and hesitation between the two South African batters.
Here’s the video:
Keep your eyes on the ball, but please also trust your partner 😉
Are our Tweets taken so seriously? 🤔
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.#SAvAUS pic.twitter.com/SclQkz33zm— FanCode (@FanCode) September 7, 2023
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Cricket enthusiasts and analysts immediately took to social media to discuss the run-out incident. Many expressed their disappointment at van der Dussen’s call for a quick single, while others applauded the quick thinking and teamwork displayed by the Australian fielders.
No idea about Quinton de Kock’s retirement: Temba Bavuma
Earlier in the day, the Proteas skipper Bavuma revealed that he wasn’t kept in the loop when it comes to De Kock’s decision to retire from the 50-overs format after the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup.
Speakers to reporters in Bloemfontein, Bavuma said: “I wasn’t in the loop, as per his thinking or decision. With Quinny, at times, you can expect anything. It doesn’t change how we see the guy. It’s always been a pleasure playing with Quinton from our Under-15 days at school. He is an incredible player, talented; too much talent. He will be a big loss to South Africa at least in the ODI stuff.”
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Bavuma added: “He is one of the guys I lean on from a tactical point of view. Not having him within the space is going to be a bit of a challenge but it’s something we will have to overcome.”