The current ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup has included several exciting matches. The second semifinal between Australia and South Africa will take place in Kolkata’s famous Eden Gardens on Thursday, November 16.
Australia and South Africa both had outstanding campaigns, placing second and third, respectively, with 14 points apiece in the ODI World Cup 2023 points standings.
In their previous group stage match, South Africa soundly defeated Australia by 134 runs.
In their previous match at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, South Africa defeated Afghanistan by five wickets. In relation to the match, Afghanistan chose to bat first after winning the toss. With four wickets in a row, Gerald Coetzee kept Afghanistan’s total to a disappointing 244 runs. Afghanistan’s Azmatullah Omarzai, who amassed an undefeated 97 off 107 deliveries, was a vital player. Later, South Africa managed to reach the mark with 15 balls remaining with Rassie van der Dussen’s undefeated 76* (95).
Australia, captained by Pat Cummins, had a difficult beginning to the campaign after suffering two losses, but they pulled off an incredible recovery, winning the final seven games in the group stage. Their most recent victory occurred at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune against Bangladesh.
The last time the five-time champions lost was to Bangladesh in a game played in Pune’s Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium. Australia won the toss and chose to field first, restricting Bangladesh to 306/8. With two wickets apiece, Sean Abbott and Adam Zampa proved vital for the Kangaroos.
Despite losing Travis Head for a pitiful ten runs, Australia got off to a strong start. After that, David Warner reached his 50th birthday and forged an important alliance with Mitchell Marsh. Following some brilliant blows from Marsh (177*) and star Australian batsman Steven Smith (63), Australia managed to reach the goal with 32 balls remaining.