South African talisman batter David Miller gave credit to the Netherlands bowlers for giving them a run for their money after their four-wicket win at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York on Saturday.
South Africa was chasing an under-par score of 104 runs but they had to work hard for their runs as the Dutch bowlers were right on the money. Quinton de Kock (0), Reeza Hendricks (3), Aiden Markram (0), and Heinrich Klaasen (4) were all dismissed cheaply in the run-chase as the Proteas found themselves under the cosh at 12-4 after 4.3 overs.
However, David Miller and in-form Tristan Stubbs were able to steady the ship as they added 65 runs for the fifth wicket. Stubbs scored 33 runs off 37 balls whereas David Miller, once again absorbed the pressure for the Rainbow Nation, scoring an unbeaten 59 off 51 balls.
Miller, who has all the experience under his belt, scored three fours and four sixes in his match-winning knock. Thus, the southpaw was awarded Player of the Match.
Miller said in the post-match presentation, “Whole lot better now (how’s the heart?). It was a good finish in the end. Wicket played a bit better than the first game but it was still going around. Credit to the Netherlands guys who hit their areas well. Wanted to tick over the scoreboard as much as we can. Can’t go into a shell. They made it difficult for us to score. We just tried to ground it out as much as we could. We have got over the line with our tailenders (before), so I had faith in the guys coming in. First ball of the second last over went, and I thought I have to finish the game here.”
South Africa was able to get themselves out of the hole and survived an upset. The Dutch have beaten the Proteas in the last two World Cups (ODI and T20) but SA were able to make the most of their experience.
South Africa will next take on Bangladesh at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York on Monday.
