CWC2023::Netherlands stun South Africa, pull off only their 3rd win in World Cup history.

Delhi: Netherlands looked to be heading for a third successive defeat when they stumbled to 82 for five. However, a brilliant unbeaten 78 off 69 balls from wicketkeeper-captain Scott Edwards saw them post a competitive 245 for eight, and it was a total that proved beyond the hitherto impressive Proteas.

Having been 36 without loss, the former Somerset all-rounder Roelof van der Merwe, who had contributed a handy 29 from 19 balls with the bat, took two quick wickets and South Africa were suddenly reeling on 44 for four.

Despite 43 from David Miller, they lost wickets at regular intervals and were beaten for the first time in the tournament.

“At 112-6 we didn’t want to let them get over 200 and we definitely dropped the ball there,” said Temba Bavuma, the losing captain. “We were still confident that we could chase down the score but we didn’t get partnerships and we didn’t adapt to the double spin in the powerplay.

Earlier, in the rain-affected World Cup match, Scott Edwards led from the front to help the Netherlands register an impressive recovery, ultimately reaching a total of 245 for eight. The intermittent rain not only added a chilly atmosphere to the mountain venue but also shortened the match to a 43-over-a-side contest

Player of the match:: Scott Edward.