A comprehensive win for South Africa over a really strong competitor in Sri Lanka. South Africa have qualified for the semis. This was their first win in knockouts in World Cups. This win also turned out to be the largest victory in terms of balls remaining in knockout games of the World Cup.
Earlier, South African bowlers put up a thoroughly professional performance to rip through the opposition's batting line-up. Dale Steyn and Kyle Abbott bowled with fire and aggression to take wickets early on in the innings. Once Steyn and Abbott put the opposition on the back foot, Tahir made his presence felt. None of Sri Lanka's batsmen picked the googly and Tahir ended up with four wickets to his name. Tahir also outfoxed the batsmen with subtle changes of pace. Duminy too snared crucial wickets and even took a hat-trick. Incidentally, he became the first South African to take a hat-trick in World Cups.
After Imran Tahir and JP Duminy shared seven wickets between them, Quinton de Kock played with composure to brush aside the opposition's challenge and help South Africa reach the semi-finals.
Imran Tahir is named Man of the Match for his 4/26
South Africa played with an aggressive intent and there is no doubt they have sent a strong message to the rest of the teams in the competition that they are serious contenders to lift the coveted trophy.
This was your final time to witness the magic of Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene who have been around for eternity. Time has now come to say their goodbyes!
Two spinners took 7 out of 10 wickets. well who saw that coming?
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