The 2019 World Cup got underway as the hosts England defeated South Africa by 104 runs in the opening match of the tournament played at Oval, London on Thursday. Joe Root, Jason Roy, Eoin Morgan and Ben Stokes half-centuries helped the hosts post 311 for 8 at the end of 50 overs.
(Photo by Stu Forster-IDI/IDI via Getty Images)
Quinton de Kock scored 68 while Van der dussen made 50. Eventually, the Proteas were absolutely hammered by the hosts.
But the talking point comes in the 35th over where Ben Stokes takes a one-handed stunner to dismiss Andile Phehlukawyo. Phehlukawyo slogged sweep off Adil Rashid bowling and Ben Stokes took a brilliant one hand catch at the boundary which ended the hopes of South Africa winning the match.
Apart from Quinton de Kock 68 and Van der Dussen 50, none of the South African batsmen failed to contribute. Hashim Amla had to retire hurt due to bouncer ball by Jofra Archer. The hosts are on the verge of a win in the opening match of the ICC World Cup 2019.
Ben Stokes was the top scorer with 89. Eoin Morgan scored 57 and added 106 runs for the 4th wicket. In the death overs, South Africa gave away 76 runs and took 4 wickets which steam run flow. Jonny Bairstow was dismissed for 0. Jason Roy and Joe Root added 106 runs for the 2nd wicket which gave a solid foundation for a big total.
Defending the target of 312 runs to win, Jofra Archer dismissed Aiden Markram and South African captain Faf du Plessis with quick deliveries. When things looked good for South Africa, Archer dismissed Van der Dussen for 50 to put South Africa under pressure. Apart from good batting and brilliant catch, Ben Stokes took 2 wickets for 12 runs.
England is coming into the 2019 World Cup as hot favourites. Before the World Cup started, the hosts outplayed Pakistan by 4-0. After handing a humiliating South Africa, the hosts are high on confidence. They surely live up to the favourites tag!
