South Africa's batting firepower has often been the talk of T20 World Cups
The T20 World Cup always brings out the best in cricket's power hitters, and the Super Eight clash between the USA and South Africa at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium was no exception. South Africa, known for their explosive batting line-up, showcased some of the most memorable six-hit performances in the tournament's history. Let's delve into the top five South African batters who have lit up the T20 World Cup with their penchant for clearing the ropes.
Rilee Rossouw etched his name in the annals of T20 World Cup history with a breathtaking 109 off just 56 balls against Bangladesh at the Sydney Cricket Ground. His innings, laced with eight colossal sixes and seven fours, helped South Africa post a formidable 205 for 5.
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Rossouw playing a sweep shot
Rossouw's assault began with a partnership with Quinton de Kock, adding 163 runs for the second wicket. This stand not only set the foundation for the highest total of the 2022 edition but also became the second-highest partnership in the tournament's history. Bangladesh, in their chase, crumbled under the pressure of Rossouw's onslaught and the fierce bowling of Anrich Nortje (4-10) and Tabraiz Shamsi (3-20), succumbing to a paltry 101, thus marking Bangladesh's biggest defeat in T20Is by 104 runs.
Justin Kemp’s 89 not out from 56 balls against New Zealand during the 2007 T20 World Cup was a masterclass in clean hitting. Smashing six towering sixes and half a dozen fours, Kemp steered South Africa to a total of 158 for 4. His innings were crucial in turning the tide after early wickets had South Africa on the back foot.
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Kemp hitting a six vs. NZ
MornèMorkel’s four-wicket haul (4-17) then sealed the deal, restricting New Zealand to 153 for 8. Kemp’s brutal display of power-hitting and Morkel’s incisive bowling ensured a six-wicket victory, keeping South Africa in the hunt for the semi-finals.
AB de Villiers, one of the game's greatest players ever, played an innings to remember against Scotland, blasting 79 not out off just 34 balls. His incredible strike rate of 232.35 was highlighted by five fours and six enormous sixes. South Africa piled up 211 for 5, the highest total of the 2009 tournament.
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ABD on attacking mode vs. Scotland
Scotland, in reply, were no match for the South African bowlers and folded for 81. Johan Botha and Roelof van der Merwe took two wickets each, leading to a thumping 130-run victory, the second-highest margin of victory in T20Is at the time.
Rassie van der Dussen’s unbeaten 94 off 60 balls against England was a blend of elegance and power. His six sixes and five fours propelled South Africa to 189 for 2. Alongside Aiden Markram, who scored 52 off 25 balls, van der Dussen put on an unbroken century stand, which proved too much for England.
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Dussen sets the stage for South Africa
Despite valiant efforts from Moeen Ali and Dawid Malan, England fell short by 10 runs, with Kagiso Rabada’s final over-hat-trick sealing the win. However, the victory wasn’t enough to see South Africa through to the semi-finals, but van der Dussen’s innings remain a highlight.
Albie Morkel’s quickfire 40 off 18 balls against New Zealand at Bridgetown was a testament to his reputation as a slog-over specialist. He smashed five sixes, all of them breathtaking, helping South Africa to 170 for 4. His clean hitting in the death overs turned the tide in South Africa’s favour.
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Morkel hitting a six against NZ
New Zealand’s chase faltered as Johan Botha’s three wickets for 23 runs ensured South Africa’s 13-run victory. Morkel’s late blitz, supported by AB de Villiers’ steady 47 not out, showcased the depth and power of South Africa’s batting line-up.
