(Reuters) – South Africa’s Quinton de Kock scored his fourth century of the World Cup, while Rassie van der Dussen also notched up a century, as South Africa posted a formidable total of 357-4 against New Zealand at Pune’s MCA Stadium on Wednesday.
The match, which came just days after their countrymen faced off in the Rugby World Cup final, witnessed De Kock leading the way with a brilliant knock of 114 off 116 balls. Van der Dussen also contributed significantly with a blistering 133 off 118 balls, earning himself a second century of the tournament.
Building on the foundation set by the 200-run partnership between the two, South Africa added another 119 runs in the final 10 overs. David Miller played a pivotal role in the late surge, smashing a quickfire 53 off just a handful of balls and putting the New Zealand bowlers under immense pressure.
South Africa made a steady start after New Zealand captain Tom Latham won the toss and elected to bowl. Despite the early dismissal of captain Temba Bavuma (24), the Proteas showcased their resilience as De Kock continued to dominate the proceedings, surpassing 500 runs in the tournament.
In a flawless innings, De Kock expertly manipulated the Black Caps bowlers and reached his century in style with a gigantic six over long-leg off Jimmy Neesham. He added two more boundaries before finally offering a catch to Glenn Phillips at backward point, giving Tim Southee his first wicket on his comeback after recovering from right thumb surgery in September.
On a rather frustrating day for the New Zealand bowlers, Southee managed to dismiss Van der Dussen, who was playing exceptionally well. The Kiwis also faced a setback when seamer Matt Henry had to leave the field with a right hamstring injury midway through the innings.
This news has been reported by Shrivathsa Sridhar in Bengaluru and edited by Chritian Radnedge.
