South Africa love to score quickly and it is no wonder that when it comes to limited-overs cricket, they have a habit of piling up big scores, be it batting 2nd or 1st. So it is not a complete surprise when they chased down their target of 259 vs West Indies in the 2nd T20I. They won with six wickets and 7 balls to spare. By doing so, South Africa hold the highest successful run-chase in T20Is and ODIs. Yes, they recorded ODI cricket's highest successful run-chase a little over 17 years back vs World Champions Australia.??
Coming back to this game, South Africa slammed over 100 runs in the first six overs and set a record for most runs in the powerplay as well. Quinton de Kock slammed a 100 and they did not let up in scoring runs. The run rate kept on rising and eventually the game was won with relative ease.
Rewind to 2006 when Australia set them 435 to win. It was the first time a side had scored over 400 and South Africa would need to score a world record to win. Herschelle Gibbs led the way with an explosive ton and it went right down to the wire. It was a close game and for once, South Africa did not choke vs the best side in the world. The Proteas won by 1 wicket and with 1 ball to spare. Many feel it was the greatest ODI of all time.?
2 world records in 2 formats for the best chase. That is truly amazing. South Africa have held one for over 17 years and are expected to hold this one for some time too. ???