‘It’s not Miller time, it’s choking time’ – Fans react to Proteas Champions Trophy exit
David Miller’s century was in vain as the Proteas suffered a 50 runs defeat to New Zealand in the semi-final of the Champions Trophy.
South African cricket fans have reacted to the Proteas‘ semi-final exit in the hands of New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy on Wednesday evening.
Temba Bavuma’s men came into the match having won two out of their three group stage matches to finish top of Group B.
The Kiwis posted an impressive total of 362 runs in their 50 overs, requiring South Africa to score at over seven runs per over.
The Proteas started strongly and seemed on track to reach their first Champions Trophy final in 27 years. However, the loss of Temba Bavuma’s wicket shifted the momentum of the match. Aiden Markram and Rassie van der Dussen struggled to establish a significant partnership, resulting in wickets falling at regular intervals.
Eventually, they lost by 50 runs despite David Miller’s brilliant century.
Proteas eliminated from ICC Champions Trophy
@Dege_Crypto wrote: “Once again the Proteas are choking. Nothing new. New tournament, same outcome. Time to realize that South Africa will never win anything worthwhile in cricket.
@venky013 wrote: “Feel sad for the Proteas. Don’t understand what goes wrong with them in Knock Out matches. They seem to be ok in the league stages. They suddenly choke in the Semi Finals. Sad.”
Proteas last won the Champions Trophy back in 1998 and to date, it is the only ICC tournament the team has lifted. Some fans felt South Africa lost the match halfway into the chase.
“Proteas need to focus more on mental skills training to develop mental fortitude. They mentally lost the match before the 20th over mark,” @De_Collegekid tweeted.
Did the Proteas choke?
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