NEW DELHI: Heinrich Klaasen delivered a stunning performance, scoring 174 runs off just 83 balls, leading a formidable South African batting display against Australia in the fourth one-day international held at SuperSport Park in Centurion, South Africa on Friday.
Klaasen and David Miller (82 not out) formed an extraordinary fifth-wicket partnership, amassing 222 runs off only 94 balls. This partnership powered South Africa to a formidable total of 416 for five, marking their fifth-highest total in one-day internationals.
Klaasen's exceptional innings included 13 fours and an equal number of sixes, with his remarkable display ending as he was caught on the boundary off the final ball of the innings.
Initially, it appeared unlikely that South Africa would reach such a high total, as accurate Australian bowling and a slower-than-usual Centurion pitch limited their progress. Centurion is typically known for high-scoring matches.
At the second drinks break, South Africa had reached 157 for three off 32 overs. However, the acceleration started when Rassie van der Dussen (62) and Klaasen put together a partnership of 74 runs off 57 balls.
The scoring rate went into overdrive when the left-handed Miller joined Klaasen and smashed the second ball he faced, delivered by leg-spinner Adam Zampa, for six.
Miller's unbeaten 82 came from just 45 balls and featured five sixes and six fours. The Australian bowlers bore the brunt of this aggressive onslaught, with Adam Zampa conceding 113 runs off his 10 overs, Marcus Stoinis giving away 81 runs, and Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Ellis both being hit for 79 runs each.
(With AFP inputs)
