South Africa has etched its name in the annals of cricketing history with a gripping triumph over Bangladesh in a low-scoring match at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York. This landmark victory not only extends the Proteas’ unblemished record against Bangladesh in T20Is but also sees them shatter India’s previous record by defending the lowest total in T20 World Cup history. Under the leadership of Aiden Markram, South Africa clinched the nail-biting affair by a mere four runs while defending a modest total of 113. This victory marks their ninth consecutive win over Bangladesh in T20Is, a testament to their dominance over the Bangla Tigers.
The Proteas’ remarkable achievement comes on the heels of a similar feat by India, who had set a record by defending 119 runs against Pakistan in an unforgettable clash. This matched Sri Lanka’s previous record from the 2014 T20 World Cup, where they also defended 119 against New Zealand. However, South Africa’s defense of 113 promptly surpassed this joint-record, achieving a new benchmark that will be remembered for years to come.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, South Africa faced a formidable challenge on the sluggish and tricky New York pitch. While the majority of their top-order batsmen struggled to find form, it was the partnership between David Miller and Heinrich Klaasen that provided a crucial lifeline. The pair stitched a 79-run stand, playing with both caution and aggression to navigate the tough conditions. Miller contributed a vital 29 runs, while Klaasen, demonstrating vast maturity, scored 46 runs off 44 deliveries, setting the groundwork for the team’s defense.
Bangladesh was set a target of 114, a seemingly attainable goal under normal conditions. However, the challenging nature of the pitch meant runs were hard to come by, similar to the difficulties faced by Pakistan in their encounter with India. South Africa’s bowling attack rose to the occasion, applying relentless pressure and ensuring that Bangladesh worked arduously for every run.
In the climactic final over, Keshav Maharaj was entrusted with the daunting task of defending 11 runs with Mahmudullah and Jaker Ali at the crease. Displaying exceptional composure and skill, Maharaj held his nerve and effectively curtailed Bangladesh’s chase, securing a thrilling four-run victory for the Proteas. Towhid Hridoy emerged as the top scorer for Bangladesh, managing 37 runs, while Mahmudullah, despite his valiant efforts, was dismissed after scoring 20, caught in the deep in a desperate bid to steer his team over the line.
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This notable win places South Africa in a commanding position within the tournament, virtually guaranteeing their progress to the Super Eight stage. With six victories from three matches, the Proteas appear well on their way to challenging for the title.
The historic context of this victory was highlighted by the list of the lowest totals defended in T20 World Cup history, with South Africa now leading the chart:
1. SA vs BAN: 113 runs defended in 2024 WC
2. IND vs PAK: 119 defended in 2024 WC
3. SL vs NZ: 119 defended in 2014 WC
4. AFG vs WI: 124 defended in 2016 WC
5. NZ vs IND: 127 defended in 2016 WC
Earlier in the match, after choosing to bat first on the slow, difficult pitch of New York, South Africa encountered significant resistance from the Bangladeshi bowlers. The early wickets put them under immense pressure, with only the calm heads of David Miller and Heinrich Klaasen steering them to a somewhat competitive total. Klaasen’s 46 off 44 deliveries combined with Miller’s patient 29 runs provided the backbone of South Africa’s innings, ultimately resulting in a defendable score of 113.
Bangladesh, required to chase 114, found the going tough from the outset. The South African bowlers maintained consistent pressure, exploiting the tricky conditions and forcing the Bangladeshi batsmen into errors. Key players, including Towhid Hridoy, who scored a fighting 37, struggled to form lasting partnerships. Mahmudullah’s efforts to anchor the innings and guide his team to victory fell short, as Keshav Maharaj’s precision in the final over sealed the outcome in favor of South Africa.
This monumental win has ensured South Africa’s impressive track record against Bangladesh continues unbroken and sets a new standard in T20 World Cup history. With momentum firmly on their side, the Proteas look to capitalize on their position and maintain their dominance as they advance further into the tournament.
