After choosing to field first against the Netherlands in Dharamsala, the Proteas were met with a rain delay, resulting in a match reduced to 43 overs per side. The African team initially dominated the game, claiming five wickets within the first 20 overs without letting the Dutch cross the 100-run mark.
Nevertheless, Scott Edwards stepped up for the Dutch, assuming the role of captain and demonstrating clever plays to help his team achieve a respectable score. Edwards’ game awareness reached its pinnacle on the final ball of the 43rd over, causing immense frustration for the Proteas.
Facing Gerald Coetzee, Edwards failed to capitalize on the delivery but swiftly signaled to his partner, Aryan Dutt, for a quick single, even as the eager Proteas appealed for an LBW decision. After the batsmen completed the single, the Proteas thought the innings had concluded and prepared to leave the field.
However, the batsmen had other intentions. Edwards had discreetly turned and sneaked outside his crease to return for a double. As soon as he got Dutt’s attention, the pair sprinted off while the fielders stood bewildered, falling for the Dutch’s cunning trick.
— Ishan Martinez (@IshanMarti66419) October 17, 2023
Twitter users found the incident highly amusing and took to social media to applaud the underdog team for their determination in fighting for every possible run.