Proteas Set Mammoth Target
South Africa, opting to bat first after Canada's Dilpreet Bajwa-led decision to bowl, posted an imposing total of 213 runs for the loss of four wickets.
The foundation for this substantial score was laid by an opening partnership of 70 runs between captain Aiden Markram and Quinton de Kock. Markram was instrumental, smashing 59 runs from just 32 deliveries, adorned with ten boundaries and a six. Ryan Rickelton contributed a brisk 33 off 21 balls, featuring three fours and a six, further accelerating the scoring. Despite quick wickets falling in succession, David Miller and Tristan Stubbs formed a formidable fifth-wicket alliance, adding 75 runs off 37 balls. Miller remained unbeaten on 39 from 23 balls, while Stubbs finished on 34 not out from 19 deliveries, concluding the innings with a flourish of 21 runs in the final over, including multiple sixes. Canada's bowling attack, particularly Ansh Patel who took three wickets for 31 runs, found it tough to contain the Proteas' aggressive batting display.
Ngidi Stars in Bowling Effort
In pursuit of South Africa's formidable target of 214, Canada's chase faltered early, largely due to an outstanding performance from Lungi Ngidi. Ngidi struck on the very first ball, dismissing Canadian captain Dilpreet Bajwa. He continued his devastating spell in the third over, taking two more crucial wickets to leave Canada in dire straits at 26/3. While Shreyas Movva and Navneet Dhaliwal attempted to stabilize the innings, their efforts were cut short. Dhaliwal did manage to reach a commendable fifty off 39 deliveries. However, the middle order struggled against the relentless South African attack. Harsh Thaker's contribution of 33 off 29 balls was ended by Ngidi in the 15th over. Later, Marco Jansen also made his mark, taking two wickets in the 18th over, contributing to Canada's collapse. Ultimately, Canada could only manage to reach 156/8, falling short by a significant margin of 57 runs. Ngidi was the standout bowler, finishing with figures of 4 wickets for 31 runs, ably supported by contributions from Marco Jansen (2/30), Kagiso Rabada (1/40), and Corbin Bosch (1/27).
