ICC World Cup 2023: South Africa overpowers Sri Lanka in a high-scoring game

Stunning centuries from Quinton de Kock, van der Dussen, and Aiden Markram helped South Africa to a commanding triumph over Sri Lanka. Facing the daunting task of chasing down 429 runs, Sri Lanka ultimately succumbed, managing a total of 326 runs and succumbing to a 102-run defeat.

Pursuing a 400+ total is always a formidable challenge, and Sri Lanka required nothing short of a miracle in this high-stakes run chase. While Kusal Mendis (76) provided an aggressive start early on, the steady fall of wickets on the opposite end hindered Sri Lanka's hopes of a victory. After Mendis's dismissal, Charith Asalanka (79) took on the mantle, partnering with captain Dasun Sanaka (68) to forge an 82-run partnership for the sixth wicket. However, their cautious approach led to an escalating required run rate. Once Asalanka departed, Sanaka remained as the lone warrior, but he couldn't sustain the fight. In the end, Sri Lanka managed to accumulate 326 runs. Gerald Coetzee led South Africa's bowling attack with three crucial wickets (3/68), while Marco Jansen (2/92), Kagiso Rabada (2/50), and Keshav Maharaj (2/62) chipped in with two wickets each.

Meanwhile, South Africa unleashed an explosive batting display in the first innings. Despite an early setback with the loss of Temba Bavuma's wicket, Quinton de Kock (100), van der Dussen (108), and Aiden Markram (106) powered their way to centuries, maintaining a brisk scoring pace throughout. Their aggressive approach made it apparent that South Africa was destined for a colossal total. Thanks to David Miller's (39*) blazing contribution towards the end, South Africa concluded their innings at an imposing 428/5 in their allotted 50 overs.

Sri Lanka will next face Pakistan in Hyderabad on October 10. On the other side, South Africa will take on Australia in Lucknow on October 12.

Scorecard:

South Africa: 428/5 (50 overs)

Sri Lanka: 326/10 (44.5 overs)