T20 World Cup 2024: South Africa successfully defend lowest total in history to clinch last-over thriller

South Africa vs Bangladesh, T20 World Cup 2024: South Africa recorded the lowest total defended in T20 World Cup history when it beat Bangladesh by 4 runs at the Nassau Country International Cricket Stadium in New York on Monday.

South Africa defended a 114-run target and won the match by 4 runs. On Sunday, India had defended the then joint-lowest total in tournament history against Pakistan.

Lowest Totals Successfully Defended in T20 World Cup History

South Africa (113) beat Bangladesh (109) by four runs – New York, 2024

Sri Lanka (119) beat New Zealand (60) by 59 runs – Chattogram, 2014

India (119) beat Pakistan (113/7) by six runs – New York, 2024

Afghanistan (123/7) beat West Indies (117/8) by six runs – Nagpur, 2016

New Zealand (126/7) beat India (79) by 47 runs – Nagpur, 2016

Winning the toss, South Africa elected to bat first. They faced early setbacks, struggling at 24/4. However, Heinrich Klaasen (46 off 44 balls, including 2 fours and 3 sixes) and David Miller (29 off 38 balls, with 1 four and 1 six) helped them reach 113/6 in 20 overs.

For Bangladesh, Tanzim Hasan Sakib was the standout bowler with figures of 3/18, while Taskin Ahmed contributed with 2/19in his 4 overs.

In their chase, Bangladesh were at 50/4 in 9.5 overs but Towhid Hridoy’s (37 off 34 balls, including 2 fours and 2 sixes) efforts brought them back into the game. Mahmudullah (20 off 27 balls, with 2 fours) almost secured the win for Bangladesh until he was caught by Aiden Markram, ending their hopes.

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In a heart-wrenching finish, Bangladesh’s innings concluded at 109/7 in 20 overs, 4 runs short of the target.

Keshav Maharaj was the hero for South Africa with the ball, claiming 3/27. Kagiso Rabada (2/19) and Anrich Nortje (2/17) also bowled crucial spells.

With this win, South Africa sits at the top of Group D with three wins in three games, totalling 6 points. With one win and one loss, Bangladesh is at number 2 with two points.