South Africa made light work of co-hosts India in Ahmedabad on Sunday and handed them a 76-run thrashing in their opening Super Eights fixture of the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
Here, Ongama Gcwabe, highlights five Plays of the Day of the contest between
The collision catch
Abhishek Sharma, the world’s No 1-ranked T20I batter, was too early into an attempted lofted shot off a Marco Jansen slower ball. The ball went high into the night sky, forcing Corbin Bosch to turn and cover 20m from mid-wicket to the wide mid-on region.
Bosch hung on to the catch despite a heavy collision with Keshav Maharaj, who also fancied his chances. It was a massive moment in the game; Bosch showed immense calmness under pressure to hold the chance.
Markram’s golden arm
Throughout the build-up, India’s left-handed-heavy batting unit was identified as struggling against off-spin.
As the only off-spinner in the Proteas camp, it was almost certain Aiden Markram would take the new ball. He did exactly that and struck in his opening over, dismissing Ishan Kishan, who panicked into a big shot only to find Ryan Rickelton at extra cover.
Miller time
When South Africa are in trouble in white-ball cricket, especially in World Cups, David Miller comes to life. He thrives under pressure and proved it in front of over 90 000 Indian supporters, smashing 63 off 35 balls.
Miller stayed true to his attacking nature despite the side being in a spot of bother, fighting fire with fire. He struck three maximums and seven fours to drag South Africa to a defendable total.
The shot of the night
To cross the half-century mark, Miller smashed a six over the cover boundary off seamer Shivam Dube.
The left-hander dropped to one knee with a full stride, accessing a wide, full-length delivery and hitting through the line to complete a 26-ball 52. It was a shot that summed up the sheer quality and confidence Miller is currently enjoying.
Brevis peaking
Dewald Brevis scored 45 off 29 balls and combined for a vital 93-run fourth-wicket partnership with Miller.
He looked crisp, smashing three sixes and as many fours, proving once again that he is a player for the big occasion. The youngster seems to be peaking at the perfect time, which bodes well for South Africa as the tournament intensifies.
