Thursday turned out be an one other heartbreak for South Africa as Australia crushed their hopes of lifting the ODI World Cup 2023 title. The Proteas confronted a surprising three-wicket defeat towards the Aussies within the semi-final, which turned out to be a low-scoring thriller in Kolkata. Chasing a below-par rating of 213, Australia misplaced saved on dropping wickets at common intervals however Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc held their nerves and took their facet throughout the road with 16 balls to spare.

Infamous for holding the ‘chokers’ tag, South Africa had been one of many sturdy contenders to win the match. However, their elimination has now invited some criticism as former South Africa spinner Imran Tahir lashed out at skipper Temba Bavuma for his poor captaincy.

“It is all about mindset. If you are going out on the field, are you going as a warrior? You are persisting with a bowler who’s bowling 90mph (Coetzee), but you didn’t keep a slip for him. Then, you concede a four from slips when they need 25 runs to win. As a captain, and even as senior players, you should know such things,” Tahir mentioned on Star Sports after the match.

“This is a big game, not a normal, bilateral match. Youngsters don’t realize what more this bunch could’ve done. Sure, a South African team will eventually reach a final. Youngsters will come. We believed in this team, and they won’t be the first heroes to reach the final. If you keep squandering such chances… today, the ground was full. There are 54 million South Africans who were behind you. Personally, I’m very disappointed. Give me a South Africa kit right now, I’m ready to fight even at this age,” he added.

Talking in regards to the match, Travis Head starred with bat and ball as Australia arrange a World Cup ultimate conflict with India after a tense three-wicket win over South Africa.

Chasing a difficult 213 for victory, Australia wobbled after Head hit 62 however Steve Smith (30) and Josh Inglis (28) helped the five-time champions attain their goal with 16 balls to spare.

As Australia reached an eighth World Cup ultimate, South Africa had been left to rue a fifth semi-final loss regardless of David Miller‘s 101.

Australia slipped to 137-5 after which 193-7 earlier than Mitchell Starc (16) and skipper Pat Cummins (14) saved their nerve to steer the group house.

(With AFP Inputs)