In a stunning twist,the Netherlands defeated South Africa by 38 runs to win their first match of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023. This triumph marked the Dutch team’s second consecutive win over South Africa, having previously defeated the Proteas in the ICC T20 World Cup held in Australia last year. The loss marked South Africa’s first defeat in the 2023 ODI World Cup, leaving Temba Bavuma and his team disappointed.

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The match, held in Dharamshala, faced a delayed start due to rain and was eventually reduced to a 43-over contest. The Netherlands had a rocky beginning, stumbling to 82-5 in 20.2 overs. However, the captain, Scott Edwards, took charge and led the Dutch lower order with notable support from Roelof van der Merwe and Aryan Dutt. Van der Merwe contributed a crucial 29 runs off 19 balls, while Dutt smashed a quick 23 runs off 9 balls, including three sixes. Edwards showcased his class with a composed 78 off 69 balls, featuring 10 fours and one six, enabling the Netherlands to set a formidable target of 245 runs in 43 overs.

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In the second innings, South Africa started decently but faced a rapid collapse in their top order, losing wickets in a span of just three overs. Despite efforts by Henrich Klassen and David Miller, who put together a 45-run partnership, the Dutch bowling attack persisted. Klassen fell, and the remaining batsmen, Miller and Marco Jansen, couldn’t withstand the pressure. As the South African tailenders fought hard, the last wicket fell in the final over, sealing a historic victory for the Netherlands.

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