In the Super 8 of the T20 World Cup 2024, South Africa clinched victory over the USA by 18 runs in Antigua on Wednesday, despite Andries Gous’ brilliant unbeaten 80 off 47 balls.
Opting to field first after winning the toss, USA captain Aaron Jones watched as South Africa’s Quinton de Kock smashed 74 runs off 40 balls, setting the Proteas up for a total of 194 runs in 20 overs. Aiden Markram and Heinrich Klaasen also contributed with 46 and 36 runs, respectively.
Andries Gous stepped up as the co-host’s opener in place of skipper Monank Patel, leading the chase until the penultimate over. However, Kagiso Rabada’s crucial dismissal of Jasdeep Singh with just two runs needed from 12 deliveries secured South Africa’s seventh consecutive tournament win. USA concluded their innings at 176/6.
Despite Gous’ valiant effort, South African bowlers Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi broke through the USA’s middle order. Gous’ unbeaten 80 and his 91-run partnership with Harmeet rank second in T20 World Cup history for the sixth wicket or lower.
Although USA’s openers Steven Taylor and Andries Gous made an impressive start, with Taylor particularly aggressive against bowlers, they fell short in the end. Despite their consistent performance in previous matches, USA couldn’t overcome South Africa’s challenge, losing by 18 runs in the Super 8s clash.
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