Today is the last post in our series on the history of cricket in South Africa. We began talking about The History of Cricket in South Africa from the early days to 1900, followed this with a post on The History of Cricket in South Africa between 1900 and 1950, and then the previous post continued on The History of Cricket in South Africa between 1950 and 2000.
Now, we begin with the 21st century, and look at the years 2000 to now, a time when South African cricket hit the number one ranking, yet still struggle to win silverware.
We hope you enjoy this post.
History of Cricket in South Africa – 2000s
The 2000s were a transformative decade for South African cricket, marked by significant successes and notable developments.
During this period, South Africa played 108 Test matches, winning 53, losing 32, and drawing 23. In One Day Internationals (ODIs), they played 254 matches, winning 157, losing 86, tying 4, and having 7 no-results. The team also ventured into the nascent format of Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), playing 26 matches, winning 17, and losing 9.
These statistics reflect a period of competitive excellence and strategic rebuilding, underscored by several key themes and developments.
Post-isolation, South African cricket continued to rebuild and strengthen, focusing on developing a robust national team that could compete at the highest levels. This decade saw the integration of young talents with seasoned players, fostering a balanced and competitive side.
The early 2000s were crucial for South Africa in establishing themselves as a formidable force in world cricket. The foundation laid during the late 1990s under the leadership of Hansie Cronje was built upon by successive captains, most notably Shaun Pollock and Graeme Smith.
Pollock’s tenure as captain began in 2000, emphasizing a disciplined and strategic approach to both Test and ODI formats. Under his leadership, South Africa saw significant victories and consistent performances, although his tenure was also marked by challenges, including the fallout from Cronje’s match-fixing scandal.
In 2003, Graeme Smith was appointed captain at the age of 22, making him the youngest South African captain. Smith’s leadership style was characterized by resilience, aggressive captaincy, and an unwavering commitment to team cohesion.
His appointment marked a new era of determination and strategic innovation in South African cricket. Smith’s captaincy was instrumental in South Africa’s resurgence, particularly in Test cricket, where his leadership and prolific opening batting established South Africa as a dominant force.
One of the critical structural changes was the implementation of transformation policies aimed at making cricket more inclusive and representative of South Africa’s diverse population. These policies included quotas for non-white players in domestic and national teams, which aimed to rectify the historical imbalances and promote talent from previously marginalized communities.
While these policies were often contentious, they played a crucial role in broadening the talent pool and making the sport more inclusive.
Great Players of the 2000s
Jacques Kallis
Jacques Kallis stands out as one of the greatest all-rounders in cricket history. His prowess with both bat and ball made him a cornerstone of the South African team throughout the 2000s. Kallis amassed over 10,000 runs in both Tests and ODIs during his career, showcasing his incredible consistency and ability to perform under pressure.
With 45 Test centuries and numerous match-winning performances, Kallis was a dependable figure in the middle order. His seam bowling added depth to the South African attack, making him a true cricketing legend.
Overall, Kallis played 166 tests, scored 13,289 runs at an average of 55.37, with 45 centuries and a top score of 224. He also took 292 wickets at an average of 32.65, 5 times taking 5 wickets in an innings, with a best bowling performance of 6/54.
He also played 329 ODIs, scoring 11,579 runs at an average of 44.36 with 17 centuries and a top score of 139. He also took 273 wickets at an average of 31.79.
He even played 25 T20Is, scoring 666 runs at an average of 35.05, and took 12 wickets at an average of 27.75.
Shaun Pollock
Shaun Pollock was a vital figure in South African cricket during the 2000s, known for his exceptional bowling and effective captaincy. As a bowler, Pollock’s ability to swing the ball both ways and maintain an impeccable line and length made him a constant threat to batsmen worldwide.
He finished his career with over 400 Test wickets and more than 350 ODI wickets. As captain, Pollock led South Africa with distinction, emphasizing discipline and strategic acumen, which contributed significantly to the team’s successes during his tenure.
In 108 tests, he took 421 wickets at an average of 23.11, 16 times taking 5 wickets in an innings with best figures of 7/87. He also scored 3,781 runs at a very handy average of 32.31, scoring 2 centuries.
In 303 ODIs, he took 393 wickets at an average of 24.50, and scored 3,519 runs at an average of 26.45, with 1 century.
He only played 12 T20s, taking 15 wickets at an average of 20.60.
Makhaya Ntini
Makhaya Ntini – 2008 PaddyBriggs, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Makhaya Ntini broke barriers as the first black African to play for South Africa, becoming an inspirational figure both on and off the field. Ntini’s tireless work ethic and aggressive fast bowling earned him a place among the world’s elite bowlers.
He was known for his stamina, pace, and ability to generate bounce, which troubled even the best batsmen. Ntini’s contributions were instrumental in numerous South African victories, and his success paved the way for greater inclusivity in South African cricket.
He played 101 tests, and took 390 wickets at an average of 28.82, taking 5 wickets in an innings , and his best bowling performance was 7/37.
In 173 ODIs, he took 266 wickets at an average of 24.65, with best figures of 6/22.
He only played 10 T20s, and his figures weren’t as impressive as his test or ODI figures, having only taken 6 wickets at an average of 49.66.
Notable Test Matches of the 2000s
South Africa vs. Australia, 2008: Historic Series Win in Australia
The 2008 series against Australia marked a historic moment for South African cricket, as they achieved their first-ever Test series win on Australian soil. The victory was a testament to South Africa’s resilience and skill.
In the first Test in Perth, a remarkable chase of 414 runs was spearheaded by AB de Villiers, who scored an unbeaten century, and contributions from Graeme Smith and JP Duminy.
The second Test in Melbourne saw another outstanding performance, with Dale Steyn’s nine-wicket haul and Duminy’s crucial 166 helping South Africa secure a series-clinching win. Despite the 9 wickets, it was perhaps Steyn’s efforts with the bat that won the test match. Chasing Australia’s 394, South Africa were 8/251, looking at a large deficit on the first innings. Instead, Steyn (76), along with Duminy, added 180, to give South Africa an unexpected lead.
Perhaps demoralized, Australia could only produce 247 and give South Africa a chase of 183 runs, which they passed after losing only 1 wicket.
The third test would end up as a victory for Australia, but it would also be remembered for the courage of Graeme Smith. Smith, having broken his hand early in the match, came out at the fall of the 9th wicket to try and save a draw in the dying stages of the match. The Sydney crowd stood as one to cheer his courage.
He almost prevailed, lasting almost half an hour, before being out with only 8 balls remaining in the test.
World Cup ODI Results – 2000s
Despite winning more than 60 percent of their ODI games during the 2000s, that success wasn’t turned into World Cup success.
2003
In the 2003 edition, held in South Africa, the home team needed a win in their final pool game against Sri Lanka to qualify for the Super Sixes. Chasing Sri Lanka’s 9/268, South Africa were 6/216 after 44 overs and rain began to fall. At this point, all of the South African team’s number crunchers tried to figure out what was a par score under the Duckworth Lewis system.
South Africa were behind, but then Muttiah Muralitharan, the bowler of the 45th over, bowled 5 wides, and then, on the 5th ball of the 44th over, Mark Boucher hit a six.
South Africa were now ahead of the Duckworth Lewis par score, so the number crunchers said, and with it looking likely that the players would come off at the end of the over as the rain picked up, it was stated that as long as the batsman didn’t get out on this ball, South Africa’s current score would be enough to win the game should they go off.
This information was brought out to the batters, and Mark Boucher duly kept out the final ball of the over, nudging the ball for a dot.
The number crunchers were wrong. South Africa had needed 1 run to win.
And then the rain did come and the players left the field with no hope of play to come.
The tie, and the two points missed out because of not winning, was enough to keep South Africa from progressing.
After losing in the 1992 version of the semi final when a gettable 22 off 13 balls became 22 off 1 ball, rain (and a bit of a failure in maths) lost South Africa the chance of success at the 2003 World Cup.
2007
South Africa came into the 2007 World Cup Campaign in the West Indies at the top of the ODI team rankings. They progressed through the group stages and came 4th in the Super Eights to get a spot in the Semi Finals.
However, they met a white-hot Australia team, undefeated in the World Cup campaign and full of confidence. South Africa were quickly 5/27, and while some fight allowed them a score of 149, it was never going to be enough. Australia passed the score with 7 wickets remaining and 18.3 overs to go.
World Cup T20I Results – 2000s
The inaugural T20I World Cup was played in South Africa. South Africa progressed from the pool matches, but could not progress from the Super 8s. The one game they lost all tournament was enough to keep them from playing in the Semi Finals.
In the final game of the Super 8’s, India had scored 5/153. South Africa needed only to score 126 to ensure their run rate remained above second place New Zealand’s to progress. Instead, they scored 9/116 of their 20 overs.
History of South African Cricket – 2010s
The 2010s were a great decade for South African cricket, marked by consistent success and dominance on the international stage. During this decade, South Africa played 90 Tests, winning 45, losing 25, and drawing 20. This 50% success rate of winning tests is South Africa’s best rate for any decade.
In One Day Internationals (ODIs), they played 188 matches, winning 114, losing 68, tying 1, and experiencing 5 no-results. In the shortest format, Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), they played 89 matches, winning 51, losing 36, with 1 tied and 1 no-result.
South Africa’s dominance in international cricket during the 2010s was epitomized by their rise to the top of the ICC Test rankings. A combination of a formidable batting lineup, a potent bowling attack, and astute leadership propelled the team to new heights. Key players like Hashim Amla, AB de Villiers, and Dale Steyn played pivotal roles in this era of success.
Hashim Amla, known for his elegant and composed batting, consistently provided solid starts and anchored the innings. His technique and temperament made him one of the most reliable batsmen in the world.
AB de Villiers, with his innovative and aggressive style, brought dynamism to the South African middle order. His ability to play match-winning innings in all formats was invaluable.
Dale Steyn, regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time, led the bowling attack with his pace, swing, and ability to take wickets at crucial moments.
Under the captaincy of Graeme Smith, followed by AB de Villiers and Faf du Plessis, South Africa became a well-rounded and highly competitive team. Graeme Smith’s leadership, which began in the previous decade, set the foundation for this period of dominance.
His successor, AB de Villiers, brought a fresh approach and continued the team’s success. Faf du Plessis, who took over in the latter part of the decade, emphasized consistency and resilience, particularly in challenging away tours.
Continued Development of Domestic Cricket Structure
The success of South African cricket in the 2010s was also a result of a robust and well-structured domestic cricket system. The domestic competitions, such as the Sunfoil Series (now the 4-Day Franchise Series) for first-class cricket, the Momentum One Day Cup for List A cricket, and the Ram Slam T20 Challenge (now the CSA T20 Challenge), provided a steady pipeline of talent to the national team.
The franchise system, with its focus on professionalism and high standards, ensured that players were well-prepared for the demands of international cricket. Young talents like Kagiso Rabada, Quinton de Kock, and Aiden Markram emerged from this system, making significant impacts on the national team. Kagiso Rabada, in particular, quickly established himself as a world-class fast bowler, known for his pace and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations.
Challenges and Resilience
Despite the overall success, South African cricket in the 2010s faced challenges, including transitioning between generations of players and dealing with injuries to key personnel. The team showed resilience in overcoming these obstacles, maintaining high standards and continuing to compete at the highest level.
The decade also saw South Africa grappling with issues related to transformation and ensuring greater representation and inclusivity in the sport. The continued implementation of transformation policies aimed at increasing the participation of players from previously disadvantaged communities remained a focal point.
Great Players of the 2010s
AB de Villiers
AB de Villiers Junaidlone17, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commonss
AB de Villiers, often regarded as a batting maestro, revolutionized the modern game with his innovative stroke play and versatility. Known for his 360-degree hitting ability, de Villiers could dismantle any bowling attack with ease.
His adaptability across all formats and his ability to perform under pressure made him one of the most feared batsmen of his era. De Villiers holds numerous records, including the fastest ODI century (vs West Indies, off 31 balls), and his dynamic presence significantly boosted South Africa’s batting strength.
Dale Steyn
Dale Steyn – 2009 YellowMonkey/Blnguyen, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Dale Steyn, a fast bowling legend, was a key figure in South Africa’s bowling attack throughout the decade. Renowned for his express pace, swing, and accuracy, Steyn consistently troubled batsmen worldwide.
His fiery spells and wicket-taking prowess earned him a reputation as one of the greatest fast bowlers in cricket history. Steyn’s relentless pursuit of excellence saw him become South Africa’s leading wicket-taker in Test cricket.
Hashim Amla
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Hashim Amla – 2009 NAPARAZZI, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Hashim Amla, a paragon of consistency and elegance, was a mainstay in the South African batting lineup. Amla’s serene presence at the crease and his technical proficiency allowed him to accumulate runs effortlessly.
His remarkable ability to anchor innings and score big hundreds played a crucial role in many of South Africa’s successes during the 2010s. Amla’s contributions extended beyond runs, as he also served as a mentor and leader within the team.
Notable Test Matches of the 2010s
South Africa v Australia in Australia 2012/2013
The first test of this three test series was played in Brisbane. It was a high-scoring, but ultimately tame draw. South Africa scored 450, thanks to centuries to Hashim Amla (104) and Jacques Kallis (146). Australia, in reply, would run amuck, declaring at 5/565, with Ed Cowan (136), Michael Clarke (259 not out) and Michael Hussey (100) scoring centuries.
With rain having taken out the entire second day of the test, Australia’s first innings didn’t finish until Day 5. South Africa batted out the remainder of the test, scoring 5/166.
The second test also ended in a draw, but where the previous test petered out, this one was thrilling and tough cricket right down to the end.
Batting first, Australia scored 550 in rapid time, off only 107 overs. Centuries went to David Warner (119 off only 112 balls), Michael Clarke (230 off 257, which, after his previous test, meant he had gone 489 runs between dismissals), and Michael Hussey (103).
South Africa, in reply, fell well short, scoring 388, with Graeme Smith top scoring with 122. In their second innings, Australia declared at 8/267, leaving South Africa a very large 430 runs to get, but a long time, approximately 148 overs, to either get the runs or bat for a draw.
At 4/45, no one gave South Africa a chance, and even when they batted out the fourth day without further loss of wicket, the likelihood of them lasting 90 overs with their last 6 wickets was exceedingly small.
But no one predicted what would happen next. AB de Villiers, one of the most dynamic and exciting stroke makers ever, the man who would later score the fastest one day century (off 31 balls), batted this time for 220 balls, scoring only 33 runs. That’s less than 1 run per 6 balls.
While de Villiers was eventually dismissed, at the other end, Faf du Plessis, was not, scoring 110 off 376 balls in almost 8 hours.
When the day finally ended, South Africa still had 2 wickets remaining, and people wondered how much that would take out of Australia for the final, and deciding, test.
The answer was … a lot.
The first two innings were over quickly: South Africa 225, and Australia 163. South Africa began their second innings with a lead of 62, and Australia knew they would have to get quick wickets. A chase of more than 300 was always difficult.
But Hasim Amla and AB de Villiers had other ideas. Amla scored 19 off 221 balls, and de Villiers 169 off 184 balls (which was actually less deliveries than he had faced in the second innings in the second test for only 33 runs), and they helped put on 569 off only 112 overs before the team was dismissed.
With a lead of 632 runs and more than 2 days to bat, Australia had to come up with something even greater than South Africa’s batsman had produced in the previous test.
But they didn’t. Despite some hefty strikes at the end by Mitch Starc (68 not out off 43 balls), Australia red only 322 to lose by 310 runs, and give South Africa a 1-0 victory.
World Cup ODI Results – 2010s
2011
In the 2011 World Cup, hosted by India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, South Africa finished their six pool matches on top, losing only to England.
In the Quarter Finals, they came up against New Zealand. The bowlers did well to restrict New Zealand to 8/221 off their 50 overs, and it looked like South Africa were well on their way to the Semis.
And at 3/121 off 27.3 overs, needing only 100 more runs with 22.3 overs to go, it would not have been surprising if South African management were already booking their hotel rooms. But a double-strike in the 28th over, removing JP Duminy for 3 and then AB de Villiers, run out for 35, began to turn the game on its head.
Further wickets at 128, 132 and 146 left South Africa needing 76 with only 2 wickets remaining. New Zealand duly took the remaining wickets, winning by 50 runs, leaving South Africa licking their wounds and wondering how they lost.
2015
In the 2015 World Cup, held in Australia and New Zealand, South Africa finished their six pool matches in second place, winning 4 and losing 2. This put them into the quarters finals against Sri Lanka, which they easily won by 9 wickets, chasing Sri Lanka’s 133 in only 18 overs.
In the Semi Finals, they came up against New Zealand, the team that knocked them out in the previous World Cup. Batting first, most batsmen got starts, and their final score of 5/281 off a rain interrupted 43 overs was intimidating.
This score was then boosted, thanks to the Duckworth Lewis method, to a target of 298 off 43 overs for the Kiwis, a required run rate of 6.93.
Brendon McCullum came out swinging, scoring 50 in the time most people took to find their seats after going to the bathroom during the break. He was out for 59 off only 26 balls, and New Zealand had jumped to 71 off only 6 overs.
Normality resumed, and when Ross Taylor was 4th man out with the score at 149 off 21.4 overs, the game was in the balance. New Zealand were keeping up with the scoring rate, but the lass of 4 wickets already could hurt them.
Grant Elliott and Corey Anderson come together, and their partnership of 103 at just over a run a ball, meant that with 5 wickets remaining, New Zealand required 47 off the last 5 overs.
Two overs for 17 runs means the target is now 29 off 18, and then Luke Ronchi is dismissed. The third last over goes for only 6, leaving 23 runs from 2 overs to get.
Bowled by Morne Morkel, the second last over goes for 11, leaving 12 runs required from the final over.
The first ball, from Steyn to Vettori, goes for a bye. Grant Elliott, 77 from 71 balls, is now on strike. He gets a single, bringing Vettori back on strike. Ten required from 4 balls.
Vettori hits the next ball for four, squeezing out a yorker to the third man boundary. 6 from 3 required. The fourth ball of the over goes for another bye as Elliott runs a missed shot.
With 5 runs required off 2 balls (technically only 4, as New Zealand only needed to tie to progress), Elliott faces Steyn. The Eden Park crowd of 45000 hold their breath. Steyn bowls a length ball and Grant hits it over long on for six to win the game.
For the second time in two World Cups, New Zealand dash South Africa’s hopes, and the great irony of it this time is the Grant Elliott is South African born.
2019
The 2019 World Cup was played in England. Unlikely previous World Cups, this one didn’t have a pool system. All ten teams played each other once, the top four progression to the semi finals.
After losing their first 3 games and then having their 4th game as a no result, South Africa win their next game against Afghanistan, then lose their next two. They win their final two games, but finish in 7th place, 4 points behind 4th place.
World Cup T20I Results – 2010s
In the 2010 World Cup, held in the West Indies, South Africa progressed beyond the pool games, but couldn’t progress past the Super 8 section.
In the 2012 World Cup held in Sri Lanka, South Africa repeated their 2010 efforts by progressing beyond the pool games, but failing to progress past the Super 8 section.
In the 2014 World Cup held in Bangladesh, South Africa went one better than their previous two efforts. They progressed beyond the Super 10s and met India met India in the Semi Finals. Batting first, they put on 172 for the loss of 4 wickets, but India chased down the target with 6 wickets and 5 balls to go.
In the 2014 World Cup held in India, South Africa failed to progress past the initial rounds.
History of Cricket in South Africa – 2020s
The 2020s have been a tumultuous yet transformative period for South African cricket. This era has been defined by a mix of commendable victories, disappointing defeats, and significant adaptations to unprecedented challenges.
Over the past few years, South Africa played 28 Test matches, winning 13, losing 14, and drawing 1. In ODIs, they contested 53 matches, winning 29, losing 20, and experiencing 4 no results. Their T20 performance saw them play 76 matches, winning 36, losing 32, with 2 no results.
The mixed results in Test cricket reflect a period of transition and rebuilding. The victories often highlighted the team’s potential and the emergence of new talents, while the losses underscored the inconsistencies and vulnerabilities within the squad.
Adapting to the modern era’s challenges has been a crucial aspect of South African cricket’s journey in the 2020s. The team faced several hurdles, including player retirements, leadership transitions, and the ongoing quest to nurture and retain young talent.
The retirement of key players like Faf du Plessis and AB de Villiers left significant voids, necessitating a focus on developing the next generation of cricketers. Additionally, the administrative and financial issues within Cricket South Africa (CSA) posed challenges to the sport’s overall stability and growth.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cricket activities and tournaments was profound. The pandemic led to disruptions in schedules, bio-secure bubbles, and the postponement or cancellation of several series.
South Africa, like other cricketing nations, had to navigate the logistical and psychological challenges of playing in restricted environments. The pandemic also affected domestic cricket, limiting opportunities for players to gain experience and showcase their skills.
Great Players of the 2020s
Quinton de Kock
Quinton de Kock has been a dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman and a vital cog in South Africa’s lineup. Known for his aggressive batting style and ability to change the course of a game, de Kock has delivered numerous match-winning performances.
His proficiency at the top of the order, combined with his sharp glovework behind the stumps, has made him indispensable across all formats. His leadership skills were also on display during his tenure as captain, where he guided the team through challenging phases.
Kagiso Rabada
Kagiso Rabada – 2016 Blue Square Thing, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Kagiso Rabada has continued to assert himself as one of the premier fast bowlers in world cricket. His pace, aggression, and ability to generate movement both in the air and off the pitch have made him a formidable opponent for any batsman. Rabada’s knack for taking crucial wickets at vital moments has often turned games in South Africa’s favor. His consistent performances and growing experience have solidified his role as the spearhead of the South African bowling attack.
Rassie van der Dussen
Rassie van der Dussen has emerged as a reliable and talented batsman, showcasing his ability to anchor innings and score runs under pressure. His composed demeanor and technical proficiency have been evident in his performances across formats. Van der Dussen’s adaptability and hunger for runs have made him a key figure in the middle order. His steady rise and contributions in crucial matches highlight his importance to the future of South African cricket.
Notable Test Matches of the 2020s
South Africa v India in South Africa 2021/22
This test series was a tight, low scoring series, which South Africa won 2-1, despite no individual batter scoring a century and the team only once passing a total of 230 runs.
The first test was won by India by 113 runs (India: 327 & 174, South Africa 197 and 191) thanks to India opener KL Rahul’s first innings 123.
The second test was tight for most of the tests. India batted first and put on 202. South Africa’s reply, despite Shardul Thakur’s 7/61, returned 229 to give them a 27 run lead. India put on 266 leaving South Africa a tricky target of 240 runs.
However, South Africa’s batsmen stood up to the Indian bowlers, and thanks to captain Dean Elgar’s 96 not out, South Africa passed the score with 7 wickets remaining.
The third test began with India batting first again and scoring 223. This time, South Africa couldn’t get a lead, scoring 210 in reply. With the test and the series on the line, India needed to post a lead of at least 300. Rishabh Pant gave it all, scoring an unbeaten 100 off only 139 balls, but India could only post 198.
This still gave South Africa a tricky target of 212 and in a series of low scores, this wasn’t as easy as it looked. But once again, South Africa’s batsmen stood up when it counted, and this time it was Keegan Peterson, with a score of 82, who helped South Africa reach the total only 3 down.
World Cup ODI Results – 2020s
The 2023 World Cup was held in India. In the round robin early stages, South Africa came second, winning 7 and losing 2 to book a semi-final game against Australia.
Batting first, South Africa crumbled quickly falling to 4/24 off 12 overs. However, a David Miller score of 101 took South Africa to 2, and at least gave their bowlers something to bowl at.
Australia came out swinging, scoring 60 off the first 6 overs, but the South African bowlers began taking important wickets. Travis Head was out for 62 off 48, and when Glenn Maxwell was out for 1, the score was 5/137 off 23.4 overs. There was hope again.
But Steven Smith and Josh Inglis began chipping away at the score. Australia’s hectic scoring at the beginning meant that they while they still needed 76 runs, they had more than 26 overs to do it. Steve Smith was 6th out for 30 with the score at 174, and Josh Inglis 7th out for 28 with the score at 193, but Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins managed to crawl over the finish line with 16 balls still remaining.
World Cup T20I Results – 2020s
In the 2021 T20 World Cup held in the UAE and Oman, South Africa could not progress from their Group Stage, despite losing only 1 of their five matches.
In the 2022 T20 World Cup held in Australia, South Africa once again could not progress from their Group Stage, missing out by a single point.
However, in the 2024 T20 World Cup held in the West Indies and the USA, South Africa reached the Final, having been undefeated the entire tournament. In the final, India scored 7/176 off their 20 overs. Thanks to some lusty hitting from Heinrich Klaasen, who scored 52 off 27 balls, South Africa went into the final 5 overs of the innings, only needing 30 balls. Even when Klaasen was dismissed on the first ball of the 17th over, they still needed only 26 runs off 23 balls.
Their first ever World Cup Final victory of any kind looked in their hands.
But the 17th over went for only 4 runs, and then the 18th over, bowled by Jasprit Bumrah, went for only 2 runs, at the cost of another wicket.
With two overs to go, South Africa still needed 20 runs.
The 19th over went for only 4 runs, and somehow, after needing 30 runs off 30 balls, now they need 16 off 6.
They would only score 8 of them, leaving India 7 run victors.
Conclusion
We hope you have enjoyed these series of posts looking at the history of South African cricket from the start until now. We would love to hear from you. If you have any memories of South African cricket you want to share, leave them in the comments.