In a Group B encounter of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 on Monday (October 7), South Africa faced England in Sharjah. Despite a strong start, the South African batting lineup struggled to capitalize on their early promise, ultimately finishing with a below-par total. The match showcased brilliance from England’s bowlers, particularly in key moments that shifted the momentum. A standout incident involved Nat Sciver-Brunt‘s remarkable footwork, resulting in an unusual run-out that further highlighted South Africa’s difficulties in the innings.
In a moment of sheer instinct and athleticism, Sciver-Brunt delivered one of the most unusual dismissals of the ongoing World Cup. In the 19th over of South Africa’s innings, Sciver-Brunt bowled a full delivery outside off to Annerie Dercksen. The South African batter drilled the ball straight back at the bowler, who instinctively stuck out her foot to avoid the ball. In an unintended stroke of brilliance, Sciver-Brunt’s boot deflected the ball onto the stumps at the non-striker’s end, leaving Sune Luus stranded out of her crease. The moment resembled a football-style pass, and Sciver-Brunt’s reflexes led to a bizarre and rare run-out. With Luus dismissed for 1, England tightened their grip on the match, adding to South Africa’s struggles.
Here’s the video:
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South Africa’s struggles with wickets falling at crucial moments
Earlier, Despite a solid start by captain Laura Wolvaardt, who scored 42 off 39 balls, South Africa failed to capitalize on their promising position. The team lost early wickets, including key batters like Tazmin Brits (13) and Anneke Bosch (18), which hampered their momentum. England’s bowlers, led by Sophie Ecclestone and Sarah Glenn, applied relentless pressure, never allowing South Africa to form lasting partnerships. With the dismissals of key players, South Africa’s middle order faltered, and their run rate slowed down significantly.
Late surge by Annerie Dercksen and Marizanne Kapp helps South Africa cross 120
After losing regular wickets, South Africa found some late impetus thanks to Marizanne Kapp and Dercksen. Kapp played a quick-fire knock of 26 from 17 balls, hitting three boundaries to boost South Africa’s total. Dercksen added a vital 20 off 11 balls, including a six, providing a much-needed lift in the final overs. Despite their efforts, South Africa’s innings concluded at 124/6, a score that appeared under par on a good batting surface. England’s disciplined bowling performance, combined with Sciver-Brunt’s incredible run-out, left South Africa with a challenging task in defending their total.
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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.