Despite soft dismissals, Quinton de Kock’s 21st fifty and clinical bowling from the Proteas saw them seal a six-wicket win in the fourth ODI against Sri Lanka at St George’s Park. KHALID MOHIDIN reports.
The Proteas were in total control of the fourth ODI in Port Elizabeth.
Faf du Plessis put his side in to bowl first and his bowlers delivered, by dismissing the visitors for a measly 189.
Sri Lanka could’ve found themselves in an even more devastating position if it wasn’t for Isuru Udana (78 off 57 balls) who pulled his side from 131-9 to 189 all out.
The Proteas bowlers produced a combined effort lead by 3-57 from Anrich Nortje, to set would was a simple target to chase.
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The Proteas reply was effortless. Despite Reeza Hendricks failing to take advantage of his opportunity in the absence of Hashim Amla.
Aiden Markram’s blockage continued. He was visibly upset of losing his wicket on 29, after doing the hard work to set up a foundation. He attempted to chip Kasun Rajitha to the leg side but instead found a leading edge that flew to midwicket.
De Kock (51) continued his red-hot form and brought up his 21st ODI half-century, but he hit the ball straight to mid-on shortly after.
Du Plessis was on course to produce another captain’s knock, but looking comfortable on 43 off 38 balls the skipper chipped Dhanajaya de Silva straight to mid-wicket.
JP Duminy, on his return, played the perfect little cameo that proved his inclusion in the side.
Supported by David Miller (25 off 33 balls), Duminy scored a 31 off 21 balls (four fours, one six).
The Proteas made a slight meal of their chase with soft dismissals saw the hosts lose four wickets. They still managed to seal a comfortable six-wicket win.
Photo: Richard Huggard/Gallo Images
