Faf du Plessis scored a century to boost South Africa to 325-6 in the World Cup match against Australia at Old Trafford.
Better late than never. After a series of disappointing performances, the top six has delivered to set the Proteas up for a significant total.
At one stage, it looked as if they might deliver more of the same. Aiden Markram and Quinton de Kock started well, but then proceeded to throw their wickets away.
After steadying the ship, Faf du Plessis took the fight to the Australian bowlers. It said much for the Proteas captain’s form and confidence that he was able to hit the likes of Pat Cummins down the ground for six.
Du Plessis reached his 100 in 93 balls and ultimately ended South Africa’s century drought at this tournament. He was dismissed by the very next delivery he faced, though, and thus ended a 151-run partnership between the skipper and Rassie van der Dussen.
Playing in his final ODI for the Proteas, JP Duminy contributed 14 off 13 balls. Van der Dussen (95) finished strongly to ensure South Africa posted a good total, but fell agonisingly short of a richly deserved century.
Australia, who have already qualified for the semi-finals, need 326 runs to win.
Photo: Cricket World Cup/Twitter
