The Proteas are forever edging closer to securing automatic qualification to the ICC Cricket World Cup after cruising past the Netherlands with a convincing eight-wicket victory with 20 overs to spare in their second One Day International (ODI) at Willowmoore Park in Benoni on Friday.
South Africa clash with the Netherlands in the third and final ODI match at the Wanderers Stadium, in a fixture which was selected to be the iconic “Pink ODI”, where cricket lovers are encouraged to wear pink in support of cancer awareness.
Title sponsors Betway have committed to donate R1 000 for every four and R2 000 for every six that is hit by either side.
South Africa were made to chase a target of 190 as the fierce bowling attack of Tabraiz Shamsi (3), Sisanda Magala (3) and Anrich Nortje (2) proved to be too good for the Dutch batsmen.
Despite losing early wickets of opening batters Quinton de Kock and Rassie van der Dussen, the Proteas showed their class when captain fantastic Temba Bavuma displayed yet another imposing performance.
Bavuma smashed an incredible 90 runs not out and star batsman Aiden Markram played 51 runs not out, to bring up a 102 runs partnership.
The victory against the Dutch meant that South Africa gained themselves 10 points and took their tally to 88 points – level with West Indies who are still occupying position eight in the Cricket World Cup Super League standings.
Their struggles have mysteriously overturned under the leadership of the newly appointed coaches Shukri Conrad and Rob Walter, which has seen Bavuma bounce back to fine form after facing heavy criticism following a string of disappointing results by the Proteas under his leadership.
Should SA qualify for the upcoming World Cup in India, which is increasingly likely if there aren’t any penalties of slow over rates, they will be under pressure to emulate their recent performances at the biggest stage.
The World Cup will take centre stage in India in October and November.
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