Kagiso Rabada's final over proved decisive as South Africa held off a spirited USA challenge to win their ICC T20 World Cup Super Eight match by 18 runs on Wednesday.
Chasing a massive target of 195, USA found themselves struggling at 76/5 before Andries Gous and Harmeet Singh's partnership reignited hopes. Gous, in particular, played a stunning knock, smashing 80 not out off 47 balls, including five fours and five sixes.
South Africa's victory was set up by a formidable batting display earlier, with Quinton de Kock's 74 off 40 balls leading them to 194/4 after opting to bat first. Aiden Markram (46) and Heinrich Klaasen (36*) also contributed to their imposing total.
Read Also | "It looks better...": Suryakumar on Barbados wicket ahead of T20 WC clash against Afghanistan
Rabada's crucial spell of 3/18 and support from Keshav Maharaj, Tabraiz Shamsi, and Anrich Nortje ensured South Africa's bowling attack stayed on top despite a late fightback from USA.
The result puts South Africa in a strong position in the Super Eight stage of the tournament.
Brief Scores: South Africa 194/4 (Quinton de Kock 74, Aiden Markram 46, Heinrich Klaasen 36*; Saurabh Netravalkar 2/21) United States 176/6 (Andries Gous 80*, Harmeet Singh 38, Kagiso Rabada 3/18)
Result: South Africa won by 18 runs
