Introduction:

Trent Boult claimed the solitary wicket for New Zealand in their Cricket World Cup match against South Africa in Pune, India, on November 1, 2023. However, it wasn’t enough to prevent New Zealand from losing by five wickets.

Boult’s solitary success

Moreover, Boult dismissed South Africa’s opener, Quinton de Kock, for 30 in the 10th over. He bowled a good length delivery that de Kock edged behind to the wicketkeeper. Boult also bowled economically, finishing with figures of 1/31 in his 10 overs.

Boult’s consolation wicket

Boult came to the crease with New Zealand struggling at 8-100 in the 31st over. He was able to score a quick 9 runs before being bowled by Keshav Maharaj. However, his wicket was only a consolation for New Zealand, as South Africa were already well on their way to victory.

South Africa’s dominant performance

South Africa were dominant throughout the match, with their bowlers bowling New Zealand out for just 180 runs in 40.1 overs. The South African batsmen then chased down the target in just 34.3 overs, with Quinton de Kock (80*) and Rassie van der Dussen (60) leading the way.

South Africa’s batting dominance

South Africa’s batsmen were in fine form, with Rassie van der Dussen (60) and Aiden Markram (50) leading the way. They put on a 100-run partnership for the second wicket and took South Africa to victory with ease.

NZ’s bowling woes

Despite Boult’s best efforts, New Zealand’s bowlers struggled to contain the South African batsmen. The Proteas reached their target of 181 in just 34.3 overs, with Rassie van der Dussen scoring an unbeaten 60.

Conclusion:

Boult’s solitary wicket was a positive for New Zealand in an otherwise disappointing performance. The left-arm pacer remains one of the best bowlers in the world, and he will be key to New Zealand’s chances of success in the remaining matches of the Cricket World Cup.