In Dharamsala, South Africa made the most of the overcast conditions, consistently taking wickets to leave the Netherlands struggling at 123/6 after 30 overs. With only 13 overs remaining in the rain-shortened match, the European team urgently needed to accumulate as many runs as possible to stand a chance against the formidable South African batting lineup.
Leading the charge was skipper Scott Edwards, who emerged as the top scorer for his team and surpassed 30 with remarkable composure. His ability to adapt to the situation was on full display in an unusual incident during the 31st over, which left the Proteas bewildered.
Edwards played a shot to mid-on and called for a quick single, even as the fielder at that position fielded the ball cleanly and swiftly aimed a throw at the keeper’s end. The Kookaburra disturbed the stumps, but Logan van Been was safely within the crease. Quinton de Kock, seemingly disengaged from the play, inexplicably remained a considerable distance behind the stumps and swiftly paid the price for his lack of effort.
Recognizing that no fielder was in proximity as the ball rolled near the stumps, Edwards signaled van Beek for a rapid second run, and the pair efficiently completed the task before any fielder could get close to the ball.
— Ishan Martinez (@IshanMarti66419) October 17, 2023
This display of quick thinking and agility by Edwards drew immediate comparisons on social media to the legendary MS Dhoni, known for his astute running between the wickets, such as an incident when he managed to secure three byes without the ball ever leaving the 30-yard circle.