ODI World Cup 2023

WATCH- Young fan channels inner Sourav Ganguly with shirtless celebration at Eden Gardens

The highly anticipated second semi-final of the Cricket World Cup 2023 unfolded at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata, India, yesterday with the Aussies prevailing in what was a tense and dramatic affair. The chase of 213 runs proved to be a nail-biting affair, with the Aussies facing a stern test from the Proteas’ bowling attack but Pat Cummins and his boys eventually edged out South Africa by a narrow margin of three wickets.

South Africa, electing to bat first, found themselves in early trouble, losing wickets at regular intervals. The experienced David Miller provided a glimmer of hope with an outstanding century, but South Africa’s total of 212 was always going to be challenging to defend. Australia began their chase electrically as the opening pair of David Warner and Travis Head provided a rapid start. Warner, the experienced left-hander, made 29 off 18, while Head played a crucial knock of 62  which gave the Aussies a massive advantage.

The middle order, however, struggled to find momentum, and Australia found themselves in a precarious position at 137 for 5. Thankfully for the Aussies, the asking rate was never a problem which allowed them to approach the target with ease. Australia’s resilience shone through with Steve Smith, the former captain, and Josh Inglis, the wicketkeeper-batsman, forging a crucial partnership, steadying the ship and bringing Australia within reach of victory. South Africa fought well though, clinching wickets at regular intervals. The tension was palpable but Pat Cummins, the Australian captain, displayed nerves of steel, guiding his team to the brink of victory.

South Africa endure another heartbreak

In the end, it was Cummins who hit the winning runs, setting up a Final date with India. Unfortunately for South Africa, their World Cup dreams were shattered once again. The match was a testament to the competitiveness of cricket and the unpredictability of the sport. It was a game that will be etched in the memories of fans for years to come.

In the 40th over of the second innings, a young cricket fan in the Eden Gardens stands emulated Sourav Ganguly’s iconic shirtless celebration from the Lord’s balcony, the video of which has gone viral. The celebration came out after Gerald Coetzee dismissed Josh Inglis to bring the Proteas back into the game. The young cricket enthusiast in the stands, obviously supporting South Africa, exuberantly ripped off his shirt and twirled it in the air, celebrating the momentous wicket.

Junior Ganguly celebrating His idol celebration in front of Ganguly at Eden gardens.#SaVsAus pic.twitter.com/qF0fIhMXbE

— Italian Vinci (@Antoniakabeta) November 16, 2023