In a disheartening turn of events, the Australian cricket team experienced a crushing defeat in the Cricket World Cup. Their match against South Africa in Lucknow resulted in a challenging loss as they were set a target of 312 runs to win.
The Australian side faced a tough day with the bat, getting bowled out for a mere 177 runs in 40.5 overs. This dismal performance led to a 134-run defeat, marking Australia’s heaviest loss in World Cup history. This defeat also means Australia has lost their first two games in the tournament, following their initial loss to India in the tournament opener.
South Africa posted a commendable score of 311-7, with standout performances, including Quinton de Kock’s impressive century, which was his second of the tournament. He joins compatriot AB de Villiers as the only batter to achieve consecutive centuries at a Men’s World Cup.
Controversy struck the match with a contentious decision to give Marcus Stoinis out after a South African review. This decision left Australia struggling at 70-6 in their chase. Third umpire Richard Kettleborough ruled that Stoinis had gloved the ball down the leg side, but replays suggested that Stoinis’s hand was not on the bat when the ball made contact with the glove.
Despite these setbacks, Australia will face Sri Lanka in their next match on Monday, offering them an opportunity for redemption. Meanwhile, South Africa is set to play against the Netherlands on Tuesday.
