Australia clinches dominant victory over South Africa in World Championship of Legends 2024

Australia secured a commanding 104-run victory against South Africa in the fifth match of the World Championship of Legends 2024, held in Birmingham.

The Australian team excelled in both batting and bowling. Chasing a challenging target of 231, South Africa struggled, managing only 126 runs. Only three South African batsmen—Neil McKenzie (33 off 24), JP Duminy (12 off 6), and Ryan McLaren (35 off 30)—reached double figures. Prominent names like Jacques Kallis (6), Richard Levi (0), and Ashwell Prince (9) were unable to make significant contributions.

Australia's bowlers were in top form, with Xavier Doherty and Nathan Coulter-Nile each taking three wickets. Brett Lee added two wickets to his tally, while Daniel Christian took one.

In the first innings, Australia put up a formidable total of 230 runs in 20 overs, thanks to a collective batting effort. They started strong, scoring 85 runs in the first seven overs before losing Aaron Finch, who scored 49 runs. Shaun Marsh narrowly missed his half-century, falling at 49 to JP Duminy.

Ben Dunk continued the momentum with a quickfire 47 off 21 balls, hitting five fours and three sixes. While Callum Ferguson (1) and Daniel Christian (2) failed to reach double digits, Ben Cutting and Tim Paine powered Australia to their total. Cutting scored a rapid 38 off 17 balls, and Paine added 34 off 21 balls.

For South Africa, Ryan McLaren claimed three wickets, JP Duminy took two, and Vernon Philander, Charl Langeveldt, and Dale Steyn each took one.

This comprehensive performance by Australia underscores their strength in the tournament, as they outplayed South Africa in every aspect of the game.