World Cricket News – Totalcric https://totalcric.com Cricket Updates and News Tue, 21 Jan 2025 16:15:42 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 https://totalcric.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/icons8-cricket-ball-64.png World Cricket News – Totalcric https://totalcric.com 32 32 Jos Buttler Rejects Calls for England to Boycott Afghanistan Match https://totalcric.com/jos-buttler-rejects-calls-for-england-to-boycott-afg/ Tue, 21 Jan 2025 16:15:37 +0000 https://totalcric.com/?p=6827 England captain Jos Buttler has dismissed calls for a boycott of their Champions Trophy match against Afghanistan next month, stating that the game should go ahead despite political concerns.

Why Is There a Call for Boycott?

A cross-party letter, signed by nearly 200 UK politicians, was sent to the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), urging them to refuse to play against Afghanistan. This move comes in response to the Taliban regime’s crackdown on women’s rights, including a ban on female participation in sports since their return to power in 2021.

Jos Buttler’s Stand on the Issue

Speaking on the matter for the first time, Jos Buttler said:

“Political situations like this… as a player you’re trying to be as informed as you can be.
“The experts know a lot more about it, so I’ve been trying to stay in dialogue with Rob Key [ECB managing director of men’s cricket] and the guys above to see how they see it.
I don’t think a boycott is the way to go about it.

ALSO READ: England Cricket Star James Vince Opens Up on Moving to Dubai After Terrifying Home Attacks

Government and Cricket Authorities’ Responses

Calls for a boycott intensified in January when the cross-party letter was sent. Labour MP Tonia Antoniazzi urged England’s players to use their influence to bring about change. However, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stated that the UK government was discussing the issue with international counterparts. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy opposed the boycott, stating:

“Boycotts are counterproductive. They deny sports fans the opportunity they love and unfairly penalize athletes who have worked extremely hard to reach the top.”

ICC’s Stance on Afghanistan’s Participation

The International Cricket Council (ICC) requires full member nations to have women’s cricket teams and development structures in place. However, Afghanistan’s men’s team has continued to compete in ICC events without facing sanctions.

The ICC believes in using cricket as a tool for change rather than punishing players for government policies. However, ECB chief executive Richard Gould urged the ICC to take stronger action, calling the situation in Afghanistan “gender apartheid.” While he stopped short of demanding an immediate boycott, he insisted the ICC should place an “immediate condition” on Afghanistan’s full membership to ensure women’s cricket is supported by a specific deadline.

Buttler: ‘I’m Led by the Experts’

England, who faced Afghanistan in the 2022 T20 World Cup and the 2023 ODI World Cup, are currently in India for a white-ball tour starting Wednesday. They are set to play Afghanistan in Lahore on 26 February, with the Champions Trophy beginning on 19 February in Pakistan and Dubai.

“The players haven’t worried too much about it,” Buttler said.
“We’re trying to educate ourselves on the issue, and I’ve read up on it and spoken to experts to gather their opinions. I’m led by those experts on situations like this.
“As players, we don’t want political issues to affect sport.
“We hope to go to the Champions Trophy, play our games, and have a great tournament.”

This ongoing debate continues to highlight the intersection of sports and politics, with many calling for stronger accountability measures from the ICC regarding Afghanistan’s stance on women’s cricket.

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Australia Retain Women’s Ashes as England Fall Short in First T20 at Sydney Cricket Ground https://totalcric.com/australia-retain-womens-ashes-as-england/ Mon, 20 Jan 2025 17:16:34 +0000 https://totalcric.com/?p=6816 Australia have secured the Women’s Ashes once again with an emphatic 57-run victory over England in the first T20 international at the Sydney Cricket Ground. This result gives the hosts an unassailable 8-0 lead, ensuring they retain the trophy they have held since 2015.

England’s Hopes of Regaining the Ashes Ended

Heather Knight’s England side can still draw the series with wins in the final two T20 matches and the one-off Test, but they are now mathematically unable to reclaim the trophy after another disappointing defeat.

England, who were whitewashed 3-0 in the preceding ODI series, were bowled out for 141 in 16 overs while chasing 199—a total that would have equaled the highest successful chase in Women’s T20 history. Sophia Dunkley’s explosive 59 off 30 balls provided some resistance, but it was not enough.

Dunkley’s Dismissal Proves Costly

England’s chase suffered a major setback when Dunkley was bowled by Tahlia McGrath in the 12th over, leaving 89 runs still required. England had already lost openers Maia Bouchier and Danni Wyatt-Hodge for ducks, further denting their hopes.

Australia posted an imposing 198-7, with Beth Mooney (75 off 51) starring yet again, scoring her 24th T20 international fifty after being dropped early by Amy Jones.

Australia Retain Women's Ashes as England Fall Short in First T20 at Sydney Cricket Ground

ALSO READ: Two Bowlers Suspended in Unusual Big Bash League Incident

Sloppy Fielding and Expensive Bowling Hurt England

England were poor in the field, missing several chances. Lauren Bell dropped debutant Georgia Voll, while Charlie Dean and Nat Sciver-Brunt failed to communicate on another crucial catch. Sophie Ecclestone (2-26 from four overs) was the only standout bowler, dismissing both McGrath (26 off 9) and Grace Harris (14 off 8). However, all other English bowlers conceded at eight runs per over or more.

Series Continues in Canberra and Adelaide Before Melbourne Test

The series resumes in Canberra on Thursday, followed by the final T20 in Adelaide on Saturday. The pink-ball Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground from January 30 will conclude the series.

With Australia already securing the Ashes, England now face big decisions regarding their future. The positions of captain Heather Knight and head coach Jon Lewis may come under review as the team looks to rebuild.

Dunkley’s Brilliant Knock in Vain

Needing to match their record T20 chase of 199 (vs India, 2018), England got off to a terrible start. Bouchier fell for a duck after just two balls, while Wyatt-Hodge was caught behind on her first delivery. Megan Schutt and Kim Garth inflicted early damage, leaving England in deep trouble.

Dunkley and Sciver-Brunt (20 off 12) countered aggressively, adding 44 runs in just 18 balls, but Sciver-Brunt’s dismissal to Alana King’s first ball derailed England’s hopes. Dunkley powered to a 24-ball fifty, but after her departure, England collapsed, losing their last six wickets for just 31 runs.

Georgia Wareham (3-25) ripped through the middle order, ensuring Australia’s comfortable win.

Mooney Leads Australia’s Dominant Batting Performance

Earlier in the match, Mooney’s classy 75 anchored Australia’s innings, with strong support from Voll, McGrath, and Phoebe Litchfield. Litchfield’s 25 off 20 included a stunning switch-hit six, showcasing Australia’s aggressive intent.

With Alyssa Healy sidelined due to a foot injury, Voll was handed her T20I debut. Healy’s fitness remains uncertain, but with the Ashes secured, Australia may take a cautious approach with their captain.

Women’s Ashes – Results & Fixtures

ODI Series:

  • First ODI (Jan 11) – Australia won by 4 wickets
  • Second ODI (Jan 13) – Australia won by 21 runs
  • Third ODI (Jan 16) – Australia won by 86 runs

T20 Series:

  • First T20I (Jan 20) – Australia won by 57 runs
  • Second T20I (Jan 23, 8:40 AM) – Canberra
  • Third T20I (Jan 25, 8:10 AM) – Adelaide

Test Match:

  • Jan 30 – Feb 2 (3:30 AM)Melbourne Cricket Ground

With the Ashes retained, Australia will now focus on sealing an outright series win, while England look to salvage pride in the remaining matches. Can England bounce back, or will Australia continue their dominance?

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Two Bowlers Suspended in Unusual Big Bash League Incident https://totalcric.com/two-bowlers-suspended-in-big-bash-league-incident/ Sun, 19 Jan 2025 17:14:22 +0000 https://totalcric.com/?p=6811 In a bizarre turn of events during the Big Bash League on Saturday, January 18, two Melbourne Renegades bowlers were suspended from bowling for the same unusual reason.

What Happened in the Big Bash League (BBL) Match?

Playing at Docklands Stadium, Brisbane Heat openers Nathan McSweeney and Jack Wood made a slow start, scoring 31-0 in the first four overs. However, they picked up the pace, with Matt Renshaw continuing the momentum after McSweeney’s dismissal in the eighth over.

With the score at 103-1 after 11 overs, Renegades captain Will Sutherland came in for his second spell. But Renshaw immediately put him under pressure, smashing three consecutive sixes over midwicket, square leg, and covers.

Suspension No. 1: Will Sutherland

ALSO READ: Shakib Al Hasan in Trouble: Arrest Warrant Issued Against Bangladesh Cricket Star

After the third six, the umpire summoned Sutherland, pointing to the protected area of the wicket—a region where bowlers are not allowed to step during their follow-through. As a result, Sutherland was removed from the attack, and Josh Brown completed the over.

Suspension No. 2: Fergus O’Neill

Just four overs later, the same incident happened again—this time with Fergus O’Neill. A stunned Sutherland covered his face in disbelief. He was also caught on the stump mic exclaiming, “It’s a T20 game!”—seemingly frustrated that such strict rules applied in a short-format match.

What Do the Laws Say?

According to the Big Bash League 2024/25 Playing Conditions, the protected area is defined under clause 41.11. It includes a rectangle extending 5 feet (1.52 meters) in front of the popping creases and 1 foot (30.48 cm) from the stumps’ center lines.

While Sutherland may have argued that these rules should not apply in T20 cricket, clause 41.13.1 states that a bowler cannot enter the protected area in his follow-through without a valid reason, even if the ball is delivered.

Penalties for Violating the Rule

  • A bowler receives two warnings before being suspended from bowling.
  • As per clause 41.13.4.1, the umpire must immediately suspend the bowler on the third violation.
  • The over is completed by another bowler who did not bowl the previous or next over.

Though it’s unclear exactly when the first two warnings were given, TV commentator Mark Howard noted that Sutherland had already received a warning in the first over.

Match Outcome

Brisbane Heat posted a solid total of 196-4. At the time of writing, the Melbourne Renegades were 129-4 in 11.4 overs.

Stay updated for more on this unusual Big Bash League incident.

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Big Bash League Match Halted as Fire Erupts at The Gabba https://totalcric.com/big-bash-league-match-halted-as-fire-erupts/ Fri, 17 Jan 2025 08:43:11 +0000 https://totalcric.com/?p=6789 A dramatic moment unfolded at The Gabba during the Big Bash League (BBL) clash between the Brisbane Heat and Hobart Hurricanes, as an electrical fire forced play to be temporarily stopped.

The incident occurred at the end of the fourth over of Hobart’s innings, when a fire broke out in an entertainment area designated for a DJ setup. Umpires swiftly halted play while Gabba staff rushed to contain the blaze, using a fire extinguisher and blanket to bring the situation under control.

According to Fox Sports journalist Eloise Sohier, several fans at the sold-out Gabba had to be evacuated from the affected area. The DJ booth, positioned directly above one of the scoreboards, sent smoke billowing through the stands, adding to the tense atmosphere.

Hobart Hurricanes Secure Thrilling Victory

Despite the interruption, Hobart Hurricanes clinched a thrilling five-wicket win, successfully chasing down Brisbane Heat’s total of 6-201. With scores level and just one ball remaining, Matthew Wade smashed a full toss from Xavier Bartlett for six, sealing a spectacular victory for the visitors.

ALSO READ: R Ashwin Reveals Why He Retired and His Thoughts on Farewell Matches

The Gabba’s History of Unusual Stoppages

This isn’t the first time The Gabba has witnessed unexpected interruptions during major sporting events.

  • In March 2023, an AFL match between the Brisbane Lions and Melbourne Demons was halted due to a power outage, plunging the stadium into darkness.
  • In 2015, another fire broke out in the stands during half-time of a Brisbane Lions vs. Collingwood match.

While The Gabba remains one of Australia’s premier sporting venues, its history of unforeseen disruptions continues to add to its unique legacy.

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Virat Kohli Gets Clear Ranji Trophy Message from Delhi Cricket Body https://totalcric.com/virat-kohli-gets-clear-ranji-trophy-message/ Wed, 15 Jan 2025 10:29:55 +0000 https://totalcric.com/?p=6761 While Rishabh Pant has confirmed his participation in the Ranji Trophy, Virat Kohli has yet to announce his decision. The Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) has now sent a strong message to the star batter, urging him to follow the example of other Indian players.

Despite being named in Delhi’s provisional squad, Kohli’s availability for the match against Saurashtra starting on January 23 remains uncertain. In contrast, players like Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal have already committed to playing in the Ranji Trophy.

DDCA’s Secretary Urges Virat Kohli to Play

Ashok Sharma, the DDCA secretary, has encouraged Virat Kohli to draw inspiration from Mumbai cricketers, who often make themselves available for domestic matches.

“Virat Kohli’s name is in the probables list. Rishabh Pant has confirmed his availability for the Delhi game against Saurashtra in Rajkot on January 23. Virat should take inspiration from Mumbai cricketers and play domestic cricket whenever possible. In Mumbai, their India players often turn up for Ranji matches. This culture is missing in Delhi and the North,” Sharma told the Indian Express.

ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma Joins Mumbai Training Camp to Regain Form

BCCI Emphasizes Domestic Cricket

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has also stressed the importance of domestic cricket participation for players who wish to extend their Test careers.

“The BCCI has made it clear that players should play domestic cricket. I feel Virat should play at least one game,” Sharma added.

DDCA President Takes a Balanced Approach

DDCA president Rohan Jaitley has a slightly different view, acknowledging that players need to manage their workload carefully.

“He should, but there are too many moving parts,” Jaitley said. “With the amount of cricket being played, players need to maintain peak fitness. Multiple factors like load management come into play, but domestic cricket should remain a priority.”

Jaitley also emphasized the role of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) and selectors in managing player schedules while ensuring participation in key tournaments like the Ranji Trophy.

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Rohit Sharma Joins Mumbai Training Camp to Regain Form https://totalcric.com/rohit-sharma-joins-mumbai-training-camp/ Tue, 14 Jan 2025 17:53:22 +0000 https://totalcric.com/?p=6756 Rohit Sharma has joined the Mumbai squad for their training sessions ahead of the second phase of the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy, starting on January 23. The team trained for two hours at Wankhede Stadium on Tuesday and will continue preparations for their sixth-round home match against Jammu and Kashmir.

Uncertainty Around Rohit Sharma’s Participation

Although Rohit’s availability for the upcoming games isn’t confirmed, his decision to train with the team in consultation with head coach Omkar Salvi hints he may feature in at least one of the two remaining fixtures. The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) is expected to announce the squad later this week.

Rohit Sharma’s Test Form Under Scrutiny

The 37-year-old India captain is working to revive his Test career, which has been a topic of discussion lately. Rohit has expressed his intent to continue playing Test cricket despite stepping down from the playing XI in the fifth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Sydney earlier this month.

Rohit had a tough series in Australia, scoring only 31 runs in five innings across three Tests. Before that, he averaged just 13.30 over ten innings against Bangladesh and New Zealand during the 2023-24 home season, where India suffered a shocking 3-0 series defeat to New Zealand, their first-ever whitewash at home in a series of three or more matches.

ALSO READ: Australia Defeats England by 21 Runs in Second Women’s Ashes ODI at Junction Oval

Push for Domestic Cricket

After the SCG Test, India head coach Gautam Gambhir emphasized the importance of Test players participating in domestic first-class cricket regularly. While Gambhir refrained from commenting on Rohit’s and Virat Kohli’s Test futures, he underlined the need to evaluate the team’s direction before the next Test series against England, stating, “Forms change, people change, and everything changes in sport.”

Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy Campaign

Mumbai, the defending Ranji Trophy champions, is in a strong position to reach the knockouts. They are currently third in Group A with three wins in five matches, just one point behind second-placed Jammu and Kashmir.

Rohit’s participation could bolster Mumbai’s squad as they aim to retain their Ranji Trophy title.

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Australia Defeats England by 21 Runs in Second Women’s Ashes ODI at Junction Oval https://totalcric.com/australia-defeats-england-by-21-runs-in/ Tue, 14 Jan 2025 17:41:21 +0000 https://totalcric.com/?p=6752 Australia secured a 21-run victory over England in the second Women’s Ashes ODI at Junction Oval, thanks to Alana King’s four wickets and Ellyse Perry’s half-century.

Australia’s Batting Highlights

After being sent in to bat by England captain Heather Knight, Ellyse Perry looked in great form, building partnerships with Phoebe Litchfield and Beth Mooney. However, a controversial LBW decision overturned by DRS cut Perry’s innings short.

ALSO READ: Dhruv Jurel To Replace Rishabh Pant In Pink Test At Sydney Cricket Ground?

Following Perry’s dismissal, Aus suffered a dramatic collapse, losing 8-49 and being bowled out for 180. Spinners Alice Capsey and Sophie Ecclestone led the charge for England, dismantling Australia’s middle and lower order.

England’s Chase Stumbles

In reply, England faced early trouble as Kim Garth dismissed Maia Bouchier (17) and Tammy Beaumont (3) during the powerplay. Captain Heather Knight and Nat Sciver-Brunt tried to stabilize the innings, but Australia’s bowlers, led by King and Gardner, regained control.

Alana King shone with key breakthroughs, including consecutive dismissals of Charlie Dean and Sophie Ecclestone, leaving England at 8-125. A mix-up led to Lauren Filer’s run-out, further sinking England’s hopes.

Although Amy Jones and Lauren Bell provided late resistance, Megan Schutt claimed her first wicket of the series, sealing the win for Australia by bowling out England for 159 in the 49th over.

Series Update

With this victory, Australia leads the multi-format Women’s Ashes series 4-0. The third and final ODI is scheduled in Hobart on Friday.

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Dhruv Jurel To Replace Rishabh Pant In Pink Test At Sydney Cricket Ground? https://totalcric.com/dhruv-jurel-to-replace-rishabh-pant-in-pink-test/ Thu, 02 Jan 2025 07:10:57 +0000 https://totalcric.com/?p=6520 With India trailing 1-2 in the Border-Gavaskar series, the team is under pressure to level the score in the final Test at the SCG. To strengthen their chances, India might make a bold move by replacing Rishabh Pant with young wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel.

Rishabh Pant, who arrived in Australia as one of India’s Test stars, has struggled to live up to expectations. His memorable performances from India’s previous tour Down Under are still fresh in fans’ minds, but this time he has fallen short. Despite occasional flashes of brilliance, he has failed to deliver consistently in the series.

In seven innings so far, Pant has scored just 154 runs, with his highest score being 37 in Perth. His dismissals have often been due to poor shot selection, which has drawn criticism, including from cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar, who called his approach “ego-driven.”

Pant’s latest disappointment came in Melbourne, where he had shown patience while batting alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal during a wicketless second session on the final day. However, a rash shot against part-time spinner Travis Head ended his innings prematurely, costing India a valuable opportunity.

India is now reportedly considering 23-year-old Dhruv Jurel as Pant’s replacement. The Uttar Pradesh cricketer made his Test debut last year against England and impressed with his performances, securing his spot over KS Bharat. Although Pant was reinstated after recovering from an injury, many feel it might be time to give Jurel a chance.

With the pressure mounting to secure a win in Sydney, replacing Rishabh Pant with Jurel could be a game-changing decision for the Indian team.

ALSO READ: Mitch Marsh Dropped for SCG Test, Beau Webster to Make Debut

Rishabh Pant Needs To Understand…: Rohit Sharma

After India’s 184-run defeat at the MCG, captain Rohit Sharma was asked about Rishabh Pant’s shot selection during the ongoing Test series. Rohit emphasized that Pant needs to evaluate the risks in his game and understand what the team expects from him.

“We haven’t had a specific discussion about today’s performance, but of course, we’re all disappointed. Pant needs to realize what’s expected of him—not just by others telling him, but by figuring it out himself,” Rohit said during the post-match press conference.

“As captain, it’s tough to have a detailed talk because this approach has brought him a lot of success in the past. However, it’s crucial for him to figure out the right way to approach different situations,” he added.

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Mitch Marsh Dropped for SCG Test, Beau Webster to Make Debut https://totalcric.com/mitch-marsh-dropped-for-scg-test-beau-webster/ Thu, 02 Jan 2025 06:46:07 +0000 https://totalcric.com/?p=6516 Australia has made a big change for the final Test against India at the SCG, dropping all-rounder Mitch Marsh and handing Tasmanian Beau Webster his first Test cap. Meanwhile, fast bowler Mitchell Starc has been cleared to play despite dealing with rib soreness during the fourth Test in Melbourne.

Starc, 34, underwent scans earlier this week but was given the green light to join the bowling attack alongside captain Pat Cummins, Scott Boland, and Nathan Lyon. The inclusion of Webster adds flexibility to the team as he can bowl both pace and spin.

Marsh’s recent performances have been underwhelming. He bowled just 13 overs in the last three Tests without taking a wicket, and his batting has also struggled, with scores of 9, 5, 4, 2, and 0 in his last five innings. While he dealt with back issues earlier in the series, team management has denied that fitness played a role in his omission.

Cummins explained the decision on Thursday:

ALSO READ: South Africa Secures Spot in WTC Final with Gritty Win Over Pakistan

“Unfortunately, Mitch Marsh hasn’t delivered with the runs or wickets this series. We thought it was the right time to bring in someone fresh, and Beau has been fantastic. It’s tough for Mitch, but it’s a great opportunity for Beau to show what he can do.”

Webster, 31, has been in superb form in domestic cricket. Since Mitch Marsh 2022, he’s averaged 57.1 with the bat in first-class cricket and taken 81 wickets at an average of 31.7. He made headlines last year by becoming the first player since the legendary Sir Garfield Sobers to score 900 runs and take 30 wickets in a Sheffield Shield season.

This marks the second consecutive Test where Australia has introduced a debutant, following Sam Konstas’ successful Boxing Day debut.

Mitch Marsh, who may have played his last Test, showed grace in accepting the decision. According to Cummins, Marsh was supportive of Webster, saying, “I can’t wait to see Beau out there.”

Cummins added, “Here in Australia, when a batter gets dropped, it’s often seen as a big deal. But we focus on having a strong squad of players we can rely on at different times.”

Australia will reclaim the Border-Gavaskar trophy for the first time since 2014-15 with a win or draw at the SCG. If India wins, the series will be tied 2-2, allowing them to retain the trophy for a record fifth consecutive time.

A victory would also secure Australia’s spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final for the second year in a row, following their win over India in 2023. South Africa has already booked their place in the 2025 final after a dramatic win against Pakistan.

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South Africa Secures Spot in WTC Final with Gritty Win Over Pakistan https://totalcric.com/south-africa-secures-spot-in-wtc-final/ Wed, 01 Jan 2025 13:23:51 +0000 https://totalcric.com/?p=6512 In one of the Boxing Day Tests, South Africa quietly claimed their place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final on Sunday. While the crowds at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) were focused on the action there, only 2,242 fans in Centurion witnessed South Africa’s dramatic win over Pakistan.

The Proteas needed 121 more runs to win at the start of the fourth day, while Pakistan required seven wickets. Both teams had reasons to believe victory was within reach, given the fierce contest leading up to this moment.

Early Wickets Add Drama

South Africa’s Aiden Markram and Temba Bavuma resumed batting, but tensions were high after Pakistan’s bowlers had taken three quick wickets the previous evening. Markram managed to score 37 before a low delivery from Mohammad Abbas shattered his stumps. Shortly after, Bavuma, who was playing confidently, edged a ball to the wicketkeeper and walked off. However, replays showed he hadn’t actually hit the ball. This wasn’t the first time Bavuma had walked prematurely, but the stakes were much higher here with a WTC final on the line.

With wickets falling rapidly, South Africa slumped to 99 for 8, needing 49 more runs. Abbas, Pakistan’s experienced seamer, bowled tirelessly and claimed four key wickets during this tense period.

Jansen and Rabada to the Rescue

ALSO READ: Sushila Meena: How Sachin Tendulkar Turned an Indian Girl into an Online Cricket Sensation

Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada then put on a heroic partnership. Rabada’s aggressive 31 not out from just 26 balls, paired with Jansen’s steady 16 not out, turned the game around. They added 51 runs in 50 balls to guide South Africa to victory.

The win was a testament to South Africa’s resilience. They showed they could triumph under pressure, proving they deserve their spot in the final at Lord’s in June.

Looking Ahead to Lord’s

While questions remain about their potential opponents in the WTC final, South Africa has shown they belong at the top of world cricket. Winning under such challenging circumstances only strengthens their case.

For now, they’ll celebrate this hard-fought victory in Centurion and prepare for their next big challenge at Lord’s. Time will tell if they can replicate this success on the biggest stage.

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