The 1999 Cricket World Cup semifinal between Australia and South Africa, played on June 17, 1999, at Birmingham, is one of the most thrilling and dramatic matches in the history of the tournament. The game is particularly famous for its nail-biting finish and the heart-stopping moments that left fans around the world on the edge of their seats.
Australia's Innings:
Australia batted first after winning the toss, posting a total of 213 runs. The innings was not without its struggles, as the South African bowlers, led by Shaun Pollock,Alan Donald and Lance Klusener, kept the Australian batsmen under pressure. The Australian top order, including stars like Mark Waugh and Ricky Ponting, struggled to find consistency. Australian Captain Steave waugh and Michel Bevon helped Australia to reach a modest total.
South Africa's Run Chase:
Chasing 214, South Africa had a rocky start, losing early wickets. However, a resilient knock by Jacques Kallis, along with solid contributions from Johnty Rhodes and Lance klusener, saw them slowly but surely closing in on the target. With just 9 runs required to win off the final over, South Africa seemed destined for their first-ever World Cup final.
The final over, bowled by Australia's Damien Fleming, was one of the most dramatic moments in World Cup history. South Africa needed 9 runs to win with just one wicket remaining. With just three balls left in the match, South Africa was on 213/9, needing 1 run to win, but a mix-up between the two batsmen resulted in a run out. The batsman, Lance Klusener, had hit the ball to long-off and, in the ensuing confusion, he and Allan Donald (who was at the other end) attempted a single that never materialized.
In a heart-stopping moment, Donald was run out, and the match ended in a tie, meaning Australia advanced to the final due to their superior net run rate in the Super Six stage.
Aftermath:
The match became infamous for South Africa's dramatic exit, with the run out described as a calamitous and tragic end to their World Cup campaign. Australia, on the other hand, moved on to the final, where they would eventually defeat Pakistan to win the 1999 World Cup.
The 1999 semifinal between Australia and South Africa remains one of the most memorable matches in cricket history, and is often cited as a perfect example of the drama and unpredictability of the sport.
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