South Africa Struggles in Crucial Knockout Clash Amid In-Game Setbacks The match at Eden Gardens saw South Africa facing significant challenges as the Black Caps' bowlers executed a disciplined strategy to dismantle the Proteas' batting lineup. Opting to field first in the high-stakes knockout encounter, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner orchestrated a resourceful approach, deploying left-arm spinner Cole McConchie in the second over. The all-rounder quickly made an impact, dismissing Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton in consecutive deliveries. Despite Aiden Markram surviving a dropped catch by Rachin Ravindra on 3, the right-hander contributed only 18 runs before being dismissed by Ravindra in the eighth over. The Proteas' woes deepened further when David Miller was dropped by Glenn Phillips in the ninth over but failed to capitalize, perishing five deliveries later. Dewald Brevis, who had compiled 34 runs, was the next to fall to James Neesham in the following over, pushing South Africa into a precarious position. As of the latest update, Marco Jansen and Tristan Stubbs were striving to stabilize the innings, but the team's batting order continued to struggle against the disciplined bowling attack. The match also saw a notable incident during the final over of the powerplay, where Lockie Ferguson bowled a short ball outside off-stump. South African captain Aiden Markram attempted a cover drive but failed to connect, prompting the physio to conduct a concussion check on Tim Seifert. The incident highlighted the intensity of the contest, with both teams vying for a crucial advantage in the high-pressure environment of the Eden Gardens.#new_zealand #quinton_de_kock #south_africa #eden_gardens #ryan_rickelton
