World Cup: Spirited Netherlands stun high-flying South Africa in Dharamsala
The match between South Africa and Netherlands got off to a delayed start at the picturesque HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala due to rain and was shortened to 43 overs
South Africa started off on a clinical note with the ball, getting early breakthroughs and reducing the Dutch to 112/6
Captain Scott Edwards’ brilliant 78 not out off just 69 balls however, turned the tide in their favour, helping them post a competitive 245/8 in 43 overs
The South African bowlers were wayward on the day despite starting off on a clinical note, conceding as many as 32 extras
Things slid from bad to worse for the Proteas after the in-form Quinton de Kock, who had smashed consecutive 100s, departed for 20
Skipper Temba Bavuma (16) was cleaned up by ex-Proteas spinner Roelof van der Merwe later in the opening powerplay
Netherlands managed to collect four wickets for just eight runs to reduce South Africa to 44/4, and were already sniffing victory at this point
David Miller tried reviving South Africa’s chase with a 52-ball 43, adding 45 for the fifth wicket with Heinrich Klaasen, but could only delay the inevitable in the end
South Africa were bowled out for 207, resulting in a 38-run defeat — their first of the ongoing World Cup and second against Netherlands in as many meetings in ICC events