OTD | The Netherlands pulled off their biggest upset in ODI cricket by beating South Africa in World Cup 2023

On this day in 2023, the Netherlands pulled off one of the most memorable upsets in ICC Cricket World Cup history, defeating South Africa by 38 runs in a rain-affected match in Dharamshala. This victory not only earned the Dutch their first points of the tournament but also sent shockwaves through the cricketing world as they toppled one of the tournament’s strong contenders.

Batting first on a tricky pitch at the HPCA Stadium, the Netherlands posted a challenging total of 245-8 in their 43 overs. Initially, things looked bleak for the Dutch as they stumbled to 50-4 within the first 15 overs. However, a determined and aggressive knock from captain Scott Edwards changed the course of the innings. 

Edwards, who smashed 78 runs off just 69 balls, including 10 boundaries and a six, anchored the innings brilliantly. The lower-order contributions from veteran spinner Roelof Van Der Merwe and Aryan Dutt gave the Netherlands a late surge, taking them from 140-7 to a competitive total.

South Africa choked while chasing!

South Africa’s chase began with caution, but the Dutch bowlers quickly turned the screws. Opener Quinton de Kock, who had been in scintillating form throughout the tournament, was dismissed for 20 by Colin Ackermann, sparking a South African collapse. In a span of just 26 balls, the Netherlands sent captain Temba Bavuma, Rassie van der Dussen, and Aiden Markram back to the pavilion, leaving South Africa reeling.

Veteran all-rounder Van der Merwe and medium-pacer Paul Van Meekeren were instrumental in maintaining tight lines, taking two wickets each and keeping the Proteas’ run rate under pressure. Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller briefly gave hope to South African fans, adding 45 runs together, but their fightback was short-lived as Logan van Beek sent both batters packing.

With the tail-enders trying to salvage the game, Keshav Maharaj and Lungi Ngidi put up a resilient 41-run partnership, but Bas de Leede, who had already grabbed three crucial wickets, claimed the final scalp to seal the win for the Netherlands.

Disclaimer: This exclusive news is based on the author’s insights, analysis, and intuition. While reviewing this information, consider the points discussed and form your own conclusions.