England somehow bowled out South Africa for 165 to win by six runs in Chennai on Sunday. The England team were all out for disappointing score of 172, but it was four wickets from Stuart Broad that saw them home in the end.
England lost both their openers (Strauss and Pieterson) cheaply in the opening over thanks to some great bowling from spinner Robin Peterson. Peterson took a spectacular catch to dismiss Ian Bell soon after as the Poms were 3/15.
A 99-run saving parternship by Johnathan Trott (52) and Ravi Bopara (60) gave England are more respectful total. Though it was Imran Tahir who took 4 wickets to dismiss the final batsmen.
South Africa came out with all guns blazing and it was certain for them to win when Graeme Smith and Hashim Amla put 63 runs in the first wicket partnership. Amla was dismissed eight runs away from 50, as Smith, Kallis and du Plessis also went for respectful totals.
Meanwhile, the South African middle order crumbled with England taking the next three wickets without any runs put on the board. A late fire for South Africa got them close as they needed eight runs from many overs with two wickets in hand, but the last of the Proteas’ fell in a blink of eye handing England with a great victory.
England have escaped out of jail once more but can they continue this shaky form as they play an uncertain Bangladesh outfit next followed by a big hitting West Indian side after.
They’ve got to work on all areas as they are both very inconsistent.
Lolly
Guest
I watched that match. They looked like they got constipated with fear in the middle overs, really funny to watch, it just wouldn't be a World Cup without the Saffers losing their collective marbles along the way at some point.
ChrisT
Guest
Rookie, SA didn't 'hand' England anything, they took it. So far the English have played most peoples pre tournament favourites and won and drawn. Who else can claim that? Inconsistent yes, but write them off at your peril since they've shown they can win or lose against just about anyone in this comp.