Cricket

India's tour of South Africa in November 2023 will feature four T20 Internationals, marking the resumption of a series postponed in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The matches will be played in Durban, Gqeberha, Centurion, and Johannesburg between November 8 and 13.The original series was scheduled for 2021 but was postponed after a surge in COVID-19 cases in South Africa. India played only three Tests and three ODIs during that tour, with South Africa emerging victorious in both series.The teams agreed to reschedule the T20Is but were unable to find a suitable window until now. India's subsequent tour of South Africa in December 2023 included three T20Is, three ODIs, and two Tests, with the T20I and Test series ending in 1-1 draws and India winning the ODIs 2-1.Hosting India is a significant financial boost for the Cricket South Africa (CSA), with broadcast revenues from a single T20 match estimated at over R150 million (US $8.4 million). CSA reported a loss of R119 million for the previous financial year."We are grateful to the BCCI for their unwavering support of South African cricket and world cricket in general," said CSA chairperson Lawson Naidoo. "Indian cricket team tours are always filled with camaraderie and thrilling cricket, and our fans eagerly anticipate this series, which will showcase the exceptional talent of both teams."

South Africa's Heinrich Klaasen believes the team's hard-fought victories in the early stages of the T20 World Cup 2024 have prepared them for the tournament's crucial knockout rounds.In the group stage, South Africa narrowly defeated Sri Lanka and the Netherlands in tense run chases before successfully defending low scores of 113 and 115 against Bangladesh and Nepal, respectively. Their 18-run victory over the USA in Antigua was their most convincing performance to date, but it remained a close contest.Klaasen, who contributed an unbeaten 36 off 22 deliveries, expressed his satisfaction with the opportunity to play on a "proper wicket" after facing challenging batting conditions in the tournament's early stages. He acknowledged that the batters needed to improve their execution, particularly in the death overs.Despite the team's struggles, Klaasen praised the bowlers for their exceptional performances in the five matches played so far. He emphasized the importance of adapting to different conditions and finding ways to win even when the odds are against them.Looking ahead to their match against England in St. Lucia, Klaasen acknowledged the high-scoring nature of the games played there. He expressed confidence in the team's ability to handle pressure situations and execute their game plans effectively.Klaasen also highlighted the importance of playing big moments better than their opponents, recognizing the match-winning potential of the English side. He expressed optimism about South Africa's chances of securing a semi-final berth with another victory.

South Africa and England Clash in Crucial Group 2 MatchAs the Super Eights stage of the T20 World Cup heats up, two former champions, South Africa and England, face off in a pivotal match that could determine the top of Group 2.South Africa, unbeaten so far, has faced challenges from both full members and Associates. Their batting has shown signs of vulnerability, with only Quinton de Kock and Aiden Markram finding form. The middle order remains untested.England, on the other hand, has endured a rollercoaster ride. After a shaky start, they have bounced back with impressive victories. Their net run rate of 1.34 puts them in a strong position, but they will be eager to assert their dominance.Key Players in the SpotlightQuinton de Kock and Phil Salt, both opening batters, have played crucial innings for their respective teams. De Kock's 74 against Bangladesh and Salt's 87* against West Indies showcased their aggression.Jofra Archer, England's joint-leading bowler, poses a significant threat to South Africa's top order. His pace and accuracy could prove challenging for batters still finding their feet.Anrich Nortje, South Africa's second-highest wicket-taker, has been menacing throughout the tournament. His ability to counter-punch could test England's batters, who enjoy facing pace.Team News and Pitch ConditionsSouth Africa may consider changes to their bowling department, with Ottneil Baartman and Bjorn Fortuin vying for a spot. England, meanwhile, could rest Mark Wood and include Chris Jordan.The pitch at St Lucia has been conducive to high-scoring matches, with good bounce and carry. However, spinners have also found success, as evidenced by England's performance against West Indies.Head-to-Head and StatsEngland and South Africa have a balanced head-to-head record, with each team winning 12 matches. However, South Africa has the upper hand at T20 World Cups, having won four of their six encounters.Anrich Nortje is two wickets away from 50 in T20Is, while Tabraiz Shamsi is one away from 300 in all T20s. Jos Buttler needs 19 more runs to become the ninth batter to 1,000 in all T20s this year.Quotes"Hopefully," said Kagiso Rabada when asked if South Africa are peaking at the right time."A lot of people say you learn when you lose, but I truly believe you learn when you win as well," said England's Jos Buttler, emphasizing the importance of reflecting on victories.

South Africa's narrow defeat in the second ODI against India has instilled immense confidence in the team, according to Marizanne Kapp. Despite falling short by just four runs, the Proteas displayed a fighting spirit that bodes well for their future prospects, particularly with the 50-over World Cup in India next year.After a shaky start, losing three wickets for 67 runs, South Africa rallied behind Laura Wolvaardt's unbeaten 134 and Kapp's crucial contribution. The duo forged a 184-run partnership, bringing the Proteas within striking distance of the 325-run target."To get that close is obviously a massive confidence booster," said Kapp. "We know we can reach that total."Kapp highlighted the team's intent to play an aggressive brand of cricket, a departure from their previous performance in the series opener. "We had a meeting with the batting coach after our first ODI," she explained. "He said that if we had scored 100 in 20 overs in that ODI, he would have been happy even if we got bowled out."During the chase, Wolvaardt surpassed 4000 ODI runs, becoming South Africa's highest run-getter in the format. Kapp also reached the 3000-run mark, solidifying her status as one of the team's most prolific batters.Kapp's batting has flourished in recent months, with two centuries and four half-centuries in her last 15 innings. She attributes her success to a positive mindset and a natural partnership with Wolvaardt."The way my batting has gone in the last couple of years, I have been striking at close to 100," said Kapp. "I have found that if I am being positive, I usually score runs more often than not."Despite the narrow defeat, Kapp believes that games like these bring out the best in her and Wolvaardt. "I pride myself in performing in those situations," she said. "Wolfie and I, we enjoy that."

South Africa's T20 World Cup campaign received a much-needed boost as they edged past a spirited United States of America by 18 runs in a thrilling Super Eight encounter.Quinton de Kock, in what could be his final international appearance, finally found his rhythm, smashing 74 off 43 deliveries to set the platform for South Africa's 194-4. The Proteas' innings was characterized by a slow start, but de Kock's explosive knock, which included three sixes off Jasdeep Singh, propelled them to a competitive total.However, USA fought back valiantly, with Saurabh Netravalkar and Harmeet Singh sharing three wickets between them. The duo's economical spells kept South Africa in check, but Heinrich Klaasen and Tristan Stubbs' 53-run partnership ensured a challenging target for the Americans.USA's chase got off to a promising start, with Steven Taylor leading the charge. However, Kagiso Rabada's double strike in the Powerplay put the brakes on their momentum. Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi applied further pressure through the middle overs, but Andries Gous emerged as an unlikely hero for USA.Gous' unbeaten 80, coupled with his 91-run stand with Harmeet, brought USA within touching distance of victory. However, Rabada and Anrich Nortje held their nerve in the final overs, restricting USA to 176-6 and securing South Africa's first Super Eight points.Despite their victory, South Africa's bowling performance raised some concerns. While Netravalkar and Harmeet impressed, the rest of the attack struggled to contain USA's batters. The Proteas will need to address these issues if they are to progress further in the tournament.

South Africa's Batting Prowess Faces USA's Spirited Challenge in Super 8 OpenerAntigua, [Date]: South Africa, the formidable batting powerhouse, will face a spirited challenge from the United States in the opening Super 8 match of the 2024 T20 World Cup. The Proteas have maintained an unblemished record in the tournament thus far, with their bowlers playing a pivotal role in their four victories.However, against the USA, South Africa's batters will be eager to showcase their world-class abilities. Led by the explosive Quinton de Kock and the experienced Faf du Plessis, the Proteas possess a formidable batting lineup capable of dominating any opposition.The USA, on the other hand, have exceeded expectations in the tournament, qualifying for the Super 8s with some impressive performances. Their bowling attack, led by the experienced Ali Khan and the promising Jaskaran Malhotra, has been a key factor in their success.The match promises to be a fascinating contest between two teams with contrasting strengths. South Africa will rely on their batting prowess to overcome the USA's spirited bowling, while the Americans will look to exploit any weaknesses in the Proteas' lineup.The Super 8 stage of the tournament will be a true test of character for both teams. South Africa will be determined to maintain their unbeaten run and establish themselves as one of the favorites for the title. The USA, meanwhile, will be aiming to cause an upset and prove that they belong among the elite teams in world cricket.

USA vs SA Live Score: South Africa's Bowling Strength and Batting ConcernsAs the 2024 T20 World Cup enters the Super Eight stage, the spotlight falls on the highly anticipated clash between South Africa and the United States. South Africa, a formidable force in the tournament, will be looking to maintain their unbeaten streak, while the USA will be eager to prove their mettle against a world-class opponent.South Africa's bowling attack has been their cornerstone throughout the group stage. Star pacer Anrich Nortje has rediscovered his form, emerging as the joint second leading wicket-taker with nine scalps. Alongside Nortje, Ottneil Baartman has formed a potent partnership, while Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada remain threats to any batting lineup.However, South Africa's batting has been a cause for concern. Despite boasting big hitters like Quinton de Kock, Henriech Klassen, Tristan Stubbs, and David Miller, the Proteas have struggled to cross the 120-run mark in their four group matches. The top order, comprising De Kock, Reeze Hendricks, and captain Aiden Markram, will be under pressure to deliver against the USA.The USA, on the other hand, will be buoyed by their spirited performances in the group stage. They have shown resilience and determination, and will be looking to upset the odds against South Africa. Their bowling attack, led by Nisarg Patel and Saurabh Netravalkar, has the potential to trouble the Proteas' batters.With both teams eager to make a statement in the Super Eight, the match promises to be a thrilling contest. South Africa will be keen to start their campaign on a winning note, while the USA will be determined to prove that they belong among the world's best.

South Africa, renowned for their formidable batting lineup, will face a stern test against a spirited USA in their opening Super Eight match of the T20 World Cup in North Sound on June 19. Despite remaining unbeaten in the tournament so far, the Proteas have yet to cross the 120-run mark in any of their four games.While their batting performance has been underwhelming, South Africa's bowlers have been exceptional. Anrich Nortje, who had been struggling for form, has turned it around with some scintillating displays, becoming the joint second leading wicket-taker with nine scalps. He forms a formidable partnership with fellow pacer Ottneil Baartman, while Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada will also be eager to trouble the inexperienced USA batters.USA, a diverse team featuring players from various backgrounds, has surprised many with their impressive run in the tournament. They have qualified for the Super Eights in their debut appearance, playing an aggressive brand of cricket. However, their skipper Monank Patel's fitness remains a concern after he missed the match against India and was doubtful for the Ireland game.South Africa, with their world-class batters like Quinton de Kock, Heinrich Klassen, Tristan Stubbs, and David Miller, will be keen to flex their muscles against USA. However, the top order of De Kock, Reeze Hendricks, and captain Aiden Markram may feel the pressure to perform after surviving by a run against Nepal in their previous game.With defending champions England and hosts West Indies also in Group 2, South Africa cannot afford to let up against USA. They will be eager to start the Super Eight on a winning note and prove their credentials as one of the favorites for the title.

Smriti Mandhana's magnificent century (117 off 127 balls, 12 fours, 1 six) propelled India to a resounding 143-run victory over South Africa in the first of three One-Day Internationals at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday.Opting to bat first, India recovered from a shaky start to post a competitive total of 265. The hosts were reeling at 99 for five before Mandhana's heroics rescued them. The left-handed opener played a patient and composed innings, anchoring India's recovery and setting the platform for a big score.Mandhana received valuable support from Jemimah Rodrigues (17), Deepti Sharma (37), and Pooja Vastrakar (31 not out). The Indian batters took advantage of some sloppy fielding from South Africa, with Nonkululeko Mlaba's dropped catch of Vastrakar proving particularly costly.In reply, South Africa never looked like chasing down the target. Debutant leg-spinner Asha Sobhana wreaked havoc with her accurate bowling, claiming four wickets for just 21 runs in 8.4 overs. Skipper Laura Wolvaardt was dismissed in the very first over, while Anneke Bosch, Tazmin Brits, and Marizanne Kapp all fell cheaply.Annerie Dercksen and Sune Luus offered some resistance, but their efforts were in vain as South Africa were bundled out for a mere 122. Sobhana's impressive performance earned her the Player of the Match award.The victory gives India a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. The second ODI will be played in Lucknow on June 19, followed by the third and final match in Visakhapatnam on June 22.