T20 World Cup 2024: South Africa Clinches 1-Run Victory Over Nepal In Nail-Biter

South Africa narrowly avoided a major upset with a 1-run victory over Nepal in a Group D match of the T20 World Cup 2024 on Saturday, June 15, at the Arnos Vale Ground in Kingstown, St Vincent.

Chasing a target of 116, Nepal came agonisingly close to victory. A last-ball run out saw the Asian side fall just one run short, with Otneil Baartman bowling the crucial final over for South Africa. The Proteas finished the group stage unbeaten.

Aasif Sheikh (42 off 49 balls) and Anil Shah (27 off 24 balls) put Nepal in a strong position. However, Tabraiz Shamsi, who was named player of the match, brought South Africa back into contention by claiming four wickets for 19 runs.

Collapse and Recovery

Nepal was well-placed at 85 for 2 but collapsed to 100 for 6 after a 50-run partnership between Shah and Sheikh was broken by South African skipper Aiden Markram. Shamsi then removed Sheikh and Dipendra Singh Airee in quick succession.

Final Over Drama

Anrich Nortje struck in the 19th over, bowling Kushal Malla. Sompal Kami and Gulshan Jha provided some hope in the final over until Jha was run out trying to steal a bye off the last delivery. Quinton de Kock's throw deflected off Jha to Heinrich Klaasen, who hit the stumps to seal Nepal's fate.

South Africa's Bowling Effort

Nortje and Markram each took a wicket to restrict Nepal to 114/7. Earlier, Nepal's disciplined bowling had limited South Africa to 115/7. Dipendra Singh Airee was the standout bowler for Nepal with figures of 3/21, while Kushal Bhurtel also impressed with four wickets for 19 runs.

Proteas' Batting Highlights

Reeza Hendricks top-scored for South Africa with a steady 43 runs at the top of the order. Tristan Stubbs added an unbeaten 27 to help his team surpass the 100-run mark.

The match concluded with South Africa maintaining their unbeaten record in the group stage, while Nepal's hopes of advancing to the Super 8 were dashed by the narrowest of margins.