In the 2023 ICC ODI World Cup, South Africa’s Heinrich Klaasen delivered a breathtaking performance, scoring a remarkable century in just 61 balls, which happens to be the sixth-fastest century in the history of the World Cup.
This dazzling display of batting prowess propelled South Africa to their highest-ever total against England in a 50-over World Cup match, amassing a formidable 399 runs for the loss of seven wickets. The match unfolded at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
From the outset, South Africa was in an attacking mood, with Klaasen leading the charge. They were sent to bat, and although they suffered an early setback with the dismissal of star opener Quinton de Kock for just four runs, the team quickly regained their footing.
Rassie van der Dussen and Reeza Hendricks played vital roles in this resurgence, forming a formidable partnership that added 121 runs for the second wicket. Aiden Markram, deputizing for the injured Temba Bavuma, contributed a patient 42 runs from 44 balls, further bolstering South Africa’s innings.
Heinrich Klaasen’s blazing innings came to an end when he was dismissed for a scintillating 109 runs off just 67 balls, featuring an impressive tally of 12 fours and four sixes. This explosive performance left the English bowlers astounded.
On the other end of the crease, Marco Jansen unleashed a spectacular onslaught, amassing an unbeaten 75 runs from a mere 42 deliveries, which included six towering sixes and three fours. The partnership between Klaasen and Jansen amounted to a colossal 151 runs, achieved at a staggering run rate of 11.92 runs per over.
Despite the onslaught, England’s left-arm pacer Reece Topley emerged as the most successful bowler for his side, claiming three wickets while conceding 88 runs. The pitch at the Wankhede Stadium was notably favorable to the batsmen, which played a significant role in South Africa’s record-breaking total.
This remarkable feat marked a turning point for South Africa, setting a new record for the highest-ever total they’ve achieved against England in ODI history. It also stands as the sixth-highest total in the history of ODI World Cups. Notably, their previous best against England was 389 runs during the 2019 World Cup.
This extraordinary performance demonstrated South Africa’s determination to bounce back after a shocking defeat to the Netherlands in the previous match, where they were defeated by 38 runs at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala. The stage was now set for a high-stakes showdown in the World Cup, with both teams eyeing a crucial victory.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.
