World Cup: South Africa shatter records, secure 102-run win over Sri Lanka

The ODI World Cup 2023 fever in Delhi kicked off with an unusual jaw-dropping display of power hitting as South Africa set the stage on fire with a record-breaking innings against Sri Lanka at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Saturday, October 7. South Africa, put into bat first, posted a mammoth total of 428/5, a feat that shattered the previous record held by Australia, who had scored 417/5 against Afghanistan during the 2015 edition of the World Cup. The South African side's performance was nothing short of remarkable, as they secured a 102-run win over Sri Lanka.

3 things you need to know

Three South Africans scored a century each 
Aiden Markram broke the record for the fastest hundred 
South Africa beat Sri Lanka by 102 runs on October 7

Markram emerges as the standout player 

What truly set this innings apart was the exceptional batting display by three South African stars: Quinton de Kock, Rassie van der Dussen, and Aiden Markram, each scoring a century. This remarkable achievement marked the first instance in World Cup history where three batters reached a century each from a single team. The only similar occurrences in ODI history were two instances by South Africa in 2015 and England last year. Aiden Markram emerged as the standout player of the match by smashing the fastest hundred in ODI history, surpassing Irish cricketer Kevin O'Brien's record from 2011. Markram reached his century in just 49 balls, displaying extraordinary power and precision in his batting. 

Despite an early hiccup with the loss of their captain, Temba Bavuma, for just eight runs in the second over, South Africa quickly regrouped. The partnership between Quinton de Kock and Rassie van der Dussen, which yielded 204 runs for the second wicket, proved to be a game-changer. Sri Lanka managed to break the partnership, dismissing de Kock for 100 runs. Rassie van der Dussen also fell soon after completing his century with 108 runs to his name. However, Markram continued to torment Sri Lanka's bowlers. Dilshan Madushanka eventually dismissed Markram for 106, but the damage had already been done. David Miller and Marco Jansen added to Sri Lanka's woes, and South Africa comfortably reached a staggering total of 428/5 at the end of their 50 overs.

Sri Lanka's pursuit of a record-breaking target of 429 got off to a shaky start as they lost Pathum Nissanka without scoring a run. However, Kusal Mendis emerged as the saviour for the Sri Lankan team with a blazing innings, scoring 76 runs at a brisk pace. Meanwhile, Kusal Perera failed to make an impact, departing after contributing just seven runs to the chase. Mendis's valiant effort kept Sri Lanka's hopes alive, but Kagiso Rabada's crucial wicket in the 13th over dealt a significant blow. 

Despite the setbacks, Sadeera Samarawickrama and Dhananjaya de Silva tried to rebuild, but both were dismissed in quick succession. Captain Dasun Shanaka's fighting fifty, his first in 13 ODI matches, brought some hope to the Sri Lankan camp, but his departure for 68, courtesy of Keshav Maharaj's bowling, sealed their fate. Sri Lanka eventually folded for 326, falling short by 102 runs in a thrilling contest that showcased moments of brilliance but ultimately eluded their grasp.