Photo Credit: BCCI
Cricket South Africa (CSA) is bursting with pride as we extend our congratulations to the Proteas for their record-breaking 102-run victory against Sri Lanka in their opening match of the ICC Cricket World Cup in Delhi.
The spectacular win saw many milestones being set, including the highest total ever scored in a World Cup match – 428/5. This is the third time South Africa has scored more than 400 runs in a World Cup match, two more than any other nation.
We stand in awe of Aiden Markram’s imperious 106 off just 54 balls, etching his name in the annals of cricket history for the fastest World Cup century (100 in 49 balls).
We salute the Proteas’ other centurions, Quinton de Kock (100) and Rassie van der Dussen (108), whose second-wicket partnership of 204 gave the Proteas a fabulous platform from which to build the record innings. This was the first-ever World Cup innings to include three centuries, and only the fourth in ODI history.
We commend the South African bowlers who refused to drop their heads in the face of an initial Sri Lankan onslaught and bowled their opponents out with just over five overs to spare. We thank Sri Lanka for their fighting spirit in a truly memorable match.
The achievements by the Proteas are a testament to their dedication and hard work. Moments like these highlight the strength, depth and capability of South African cricket, and we are confident this is just the beginning of a string of remarkable performances.
To the entire team, your commitment and skill continue to make us proud. We are behind you every step of the way, cheering you on, and we look forward to celebrating more milestones in the near future.
This triumphant start not only uplifts the spirits of the nation but also sets an impressive benchmark for what lies ahead in the tournament.
CSA Director of Cricket, Enoch Nkwe, congratulated the team on their performance, stating;
“I would like to commend the Proteas Men on their extraordinary performance, setting records ablaze in their opening match victory against Sri Lanka.
“Fantastic performance to start the World Cup campaign in India, and also the performance reflects the team’s relentless pursuit of excellence and their commitment to making the nation proud.
“Congratulations to our formidable Proteas, may this be the first of many triumphant moments and all the best for the rest of the World Cup,” said Nkwe.
