Rassie van der Dussen delivered a remarkable 133-run performance, while Quinton de Kock notched up his fourth century of the tournament, as they built a 200-run partnership that propelled the Proteas to a total of 357-4. New Zealand’s innings, in contrast, ended at 167 all out, with Keshav Maharaj taking 4-46.
South Africa’s triumph has catapulted them back to the top of the table, relegating New Zealand to fourth place following their third consecutive loss. Stand-in New Zealand captain Tom Latham’s decision to bowl after winning the toss played into South Africa’s strengths, allowing them to post a substantial score.
Following the tournament’s established pattern, Temba Bavuma’s team initiated the innings steadily before accelerating in the later stages. Once Bavuma was dismissed for 24, De Kock and Van der Dussen assumed control, benefiting from New Zealand’s lapses in fielding as they both achieved centuries. De Kock surpassed 500 runs for the tournament, making history as the first South African batter to achieve this milestone at a World Cup, before departing with 114 off 116 balls. Van der Dussen not only secured his century in 101 balls but also continued to excel.
New Zealand faced additional challenges when seamer Matt Henry sustained a hamstring injury, necessitating a scan to assess the damage. This allowed David Miller to exploit a weakened bowling attack, smashing four sixes during his 53 off 30.
South Africa’s fast bowlers, led by Marco Jansen, initially troubled New Zealand, reducing them to 67-4. Left-arm spinner Maharaj then capitalized on South Africa’s dominance as the Kiwis collapsed to 110-8. Glenn Phillips displayed resilience with a half-century, but it was too late to change the course of the game.
South Africa is now virtually guaranteed a spot in the top four, with both their batting and bowling units performing impressively. In contrast, the injury-plagued Black Caps face a battle to advance, with only a two-point lead over Pakistan and Afghanistan. Crucial matches against Pakistan and Sri Lanka will determine their fate.
