Australia lost to South Africa in the World Test Championship final
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South Africa's Nail-Biter Victories 🚀
The Proteas proved their grit once again on the fourth day in their recent encounter against Australia, bagging their match by a slim margin of five wickets. Despite finishing on a modest 282-5, South Africa was set to win with opening batsman Markram scoring an impressive 136 runs.
Historically, the Rainbow Nation has given fans rollercoaster rides in one-day international (ODI) and T20 World Cups. South Africa has come close to winning titles in both formats but has yet to clinch the ultimate trophy.
In the T20 format, South Africa's best performance dates back to last year's World Cup in Barbados, where they made it to the final only to fall short against India. It was a heart-wrenching loss as the team needed just 30 runs from 30 balls with six wickets in hand, but it wasn't meant to be.
Their ODI journey has been more promising, with consecutive semifinal appearances in 1992, 1996, 1999, 2007, and 2015. However, a World Cup title remains elusive.
In this epic battle against Australia, the Proteas showcased their trademark resilience as they resumed on the fourth day at 213-2, with Markram already notching a century the day before. They held their nerves, winning the match and sending the Australian team packing.
Here's a brief overview of the scores from both sides:
- Australia posted a total of 212 runs in their first innings, with Webster scoring 72 and Smith contributing 66. The South African bowling attack of Rabada (5-51) and Jansen (3-49) were the main hurdles for the Australians.
- In their first innings, the Proteas scored 138 runs, with Bedingham contributing a valiant 45. Pummelled by P. Cummins' (6-28) brilliant spell, the South African batters struggled to find their footing.
- Australia finished their second innings on 207, largely thanks to M. Starc's unbeaten 58. Rabada and Ngidi took three wickets apiece to keep the Australians at bay.
- With a fighting spirit, the Proteas stormed to a total of 282-5 in their second innings. Markram played a stellar role, ably supported by Bavuma's 66. Starc took three wickets trying to keep South Africa at bay, but it wasn't enough.
With this victory, South Africa adds another feather to their cap, demonstrating that they're more than capable of delivering when it matters most. The fans eagerly await their next challenge as they continue their quest for a major title.
South Africa's victory over Australia rekindles discussions about their potential in international sports, as they previously lost the T20 World Cup to India in a nail-biting final last year. The team's resilience, evident in their journey in ODI tournaments with five semifinal appearances, leaves room for hope as they continue to chase their first World Cup title.
