South Africa's T20 World Cup campaign has been marked by a shaky start from their top three batters, but they have managed to maintain a perfect record with a thrilling four-run victory over Bangladesh.
Batting first on a challenging wicket in New York, South Africa found themselves in deep trouble at 23 for 4. However, a record-breaking 79-run partnership between Heinrich Klaasen (46) and David Miller (29) rescued the innings, guiding them to a modest total of 113 for 6.
Bangladesh's chase began poorly, with the team struggling to 50 for 4 after 10 overs. Towhid Hridoy (37) and Mahmudullah (29) provided a glimmer of hope with a 44-run stand, but a controversial decision in the 17th over proved costly.
Mahmudullah was initially given out leg before wicket, but replays showed he was not out. However, the four runs that were initially awarded as leg byes were not counted due to the dead ball ruling.
In the final over, Bangladesh needed 11 runs to win, but Keshav Maharaj's three full tosses proved too costly. Mahmudullah was caught on the penultimate ball, and Jakar Ali was run out on the final delivery, handing South Africa a narrow victory.
Despite their top-order struggles, South Africa's middle order has stepped up, with Klaasen and Miller providing crucial contributions. The team's bowling attack has also been impressive, with Maharaj, Nortje, and Rabada all taking wickets.
Bangladesh, on the other hand, will rue their missed opportunities. They failed to capitalize on South Africa's poor start and were unable to chase down a modest target.
Tags: #T20WorldCup, #SouthAfrica, #Bangladesh, #HeinrichKlaasen, #DavidMiller
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