South Africa’s Heart-Pounding World Cup Victories

South Africa has had a mixed history with ODI World Cups. They’ve participated in eight tournaments but never made it to the finals. In 1992 and 2003, the D/L method led to their elimination, while the unforgettable mix-up between Lance Klusener and Allan Donald in the 1999 semi-finals still haunts the team. In 2015, New Zealand’s victory in the semi-finals broke South African hearts.

However, South Africa can be a formidable team on their day and has pulled off some thrilling ODI World Cup victories. Here are three such encounters:

South Africa vs. Pakistan – 2023 World Cup

In a crucial group match on October 27, 2023, South Africa faced Pakistan at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Pakistan needed a win to stay in the hunt for the semi-finals. South Africa managed a dramatic win, led by Tabraiz Shamsi’s four wickets that restricted Pakistan to 270. While South Africa seemed in control at 235/5, Pakistan’s bowlers fought back, picking up four quick wickets. With 11 runs needed for victory, Shamsi and Keshav Maharaj kept their cool, adding unbeaten 11 runs for the last wicket, securing a nail-biting one-wicket win.

South Africa vs. India – 2011 World Cup

In the 2011 World Cup, South Africa was the only team to defeat India, winning by three wickets with two balls to spare in a group match in Nagpur. India scored 296, with Sachin Tendulkar’s century leading the way. However, Dale Steyn’s five-wicket haul in the death overs turned the tide. South Africa was in control of the chase, but the Indian bowlers fought back. With 13 runs needed in the last over, Robin Peterson’s heroics secured the win.

South Africa vs. Sri Lanka – 2007 World Cup

During the Super Eights stage of the 2007 World Cup, South Africa faced Sri Lanka, needing 210 for victory. They looked comfortable at 204/5, requiring just seven runs. Then, Lasith Malinga changed the game. He took four wickets in four balls, reducing South Africa to 207/9, still needing four runs. Robin Peterson and Charl Langeveldt ensured there were no more hiccups, and South Africa clinched victory by one wicket in a thrilling encounter.

These memorable victories showcase South Africa’s ability to shine in the most exciting and tense moments of ODI World Cup cricket.

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