Published on: Jun 22, 2024
South Africa successfully defended a target of 164, beating England by seven runs in a thrilling match at the Darren Sammy Stadium in St. Lucia. South Africa posted 163/6, thanks to a blistering half-century from Quinton de Kock and a crucial cameo from David Miller in the final overs.
De Kock’s explosive innings of 65 off 38 balls set the tone for South Africa, but the rest of the batting lineup struggled to build on his momentum. Reeza Hendricks’ slow 19 off 25 balls hindered their progress until Miller’s quick runs in the closing stages boosted the total. Moeen Ali and Jofra Archer were among the key bowlers for England, with Archer dismissing De Kock through a brilliant catch by Jos Buttler
England’s chase started poorly with the early loss of Phil Salt to Kagiso Rabada in the second over. The South African bowlers maintained pressure, leading to the dismissals of Jos Buttler and Jonny Bairstow as England’s batting faltered. Harry Brook’s half-century (53 off 37 balls) and Liam Livingstone’s quickfire 33 off 17 balls revived England’s hopes, especially after they scored 21 runs in the 17th over.
However, Rabada struck again to remove Livingstone in the 18th over, and Brook was dismissed by a stunning catch from Aiden Markram in the final over, bowled by Anrich Nortje. Despite Brook and Livingstone’s efforts, England fell short, ending their innings at 156/8.
This victory keeps South Africa unbeaten in the T20 World Cup 2024 campaign, placing them at the top of their group in the Super Eight Round. England, having won their earlier game against West Indies, will now face the United States in their final group match, while South Africa will play against West Indies.
