The pivotal moment came during South Africa’s innings when Heinrich Klaasen fell victim to Buttler’s exceptional throw.
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England, having won the toss and elected to bowl, set the stage for an intense battle under the Caribbean skies.South Africa, aiming to set a competitive total, saw Reeza Hendricks and Quinton de Kock provide a solid start. However, it was Klaasen’s dismissal that turned heads.
In the 14th over, Mark Wood bowled a wayward delivery down the leg side, prompting Klaasen to let it pass. Buttler, England’s captain-cum-wicketkeeper, initially fumbled but quickly recovered as the ball deflected slightly to his left.
In a split-second decision, Buttler seized the opportunity, picking up the ball and firing it with pinpoint accuracy at the stumps. Klaasen, who was lingering out of his crease, found himself short of his ground as Buttler’s direct hit left him stranded.
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Klaasen, who had been batting cautiously, could not anticipate Buttler’s lightning-fast reflexes and precise aim.
The dismissal of Klaasen proved crucial as South Africa aimed to accelerate towards the end of their innings. Despite contributions from de Kock and David Miller, England’s bowlers maintained control.
Jofra Archer’s crucial wickets and disciplined bowling from Adil Rashid and Mark Wood restricted South Africa to 163-6 in their allotted 20 overs.
