In a nail-biting World Cup 2023 semi-final on Thursday, November 16, Australia clinched victory against South Africa at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens. Chasing a target of 213 runs, Pat Cummins’ side successfully reached the mark in 47.2 overs. Opting to bowl first, Australia capitalized on overcast conditions, securing four wickets within the initial 12 overs.
Despite their early success, Australia couldn’t restrict South Africa to a low total. David Miller and Heinrich Klaasen’s resilient 95-run partnership rescued the South African side. While Klaasen departed for 47, Miller persevered, achieving a gritty century and guiding South Africa to a competitive total.
Australia’s batting started strongly with Travis Head’s brisk 62 off 48 balls, but the team lost momentum, slipping from 60/0 to 137/5. Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith attempted to revive the innings, yet struggled to score freely.
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The match saw Australia securing victory with 16 balls to spare, thanks to valuable contributions from Josh Inglis, Pat Cummins, and Mitchell Starc. Despite the win, former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir, a two-time World Cup winner, opined that Australia’s performance was below par, instilling confidence in India to face Pat Cummins’ team in the tournament final.
“Don’t think Australia brought their A-game in the semi-final. Australia are still very vulnerable, but yes, they know how to win these knockout games. India will have to play their A-game in the final, which they have been playing since the last 10 matches. India are going to be very confident facing Australia in Ahmedabad,” Gambhir said on Star Sports.