(Image source: X.com)
[Saba Sports News] South Africa handed England, led by Jos Buttler, a shocking 229-run morale-denting defeat in the 20th Match of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, played at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on Saturday.
Proteas’ middle-order batter Heinrich Klaasen showcased his power-hitting in the first innings of the match as the Pretoria-born scored his fourth ODI hundred and maiden World Cup century. Klaasen accumulated 109 runs off 67 balls, which included 12 fours and four sixes. His 61-ball ton now stands as the sixth fastest century in the ODI World Cup history.
After reaching his century, Klaasen was seen performing an outrageous celebration in front of England pacer Mark Wood, who conceded 76 runs in seven overs. Klaasen’s innings, along with a cameo knock by Marco Jansen, helped the Proteas set a total of 399 runs in 50 overs, which became the highest score ever recorded by the South African side against England in ODIs.
Nevertheless, Wood, who didn’t have a great day on the field, did not look pleased with Klassen’s celebration.
In the post-match presentation, Klaasen revealed the reason for his exuberant celebration in Wood’s face and admitted that he also apologized to the bowler, and everything was resolved between the two.
“I didn’t say anything to him. I did go and apologise immediately and after the game. He did hit me twice on the foot, which is hurting quite a bit, it’s just pure emotion. And yeah, once again, I’m sorry for him and to the English boys but it’s pure emotion that just came out and sometimes it’s difficult to control. But I did apologize straight away and spoke to him after the game and hopefully from my side everything is sorted,” said Klaasen.
Furthermore, England captain Buttler acknowledged that Klaasen’s celebration was not pleasing, but there are no ‘ill’ feelings against him since he apologized to his teammate as soon as he realized his mistake.
“I think he was obviously emotional to score 100. I don’t think he needed to celebrate in Mark Wood’s face and credit to him, he recognised that a couple of seconds after and he apologised. They played a great knock and I think he apologised straight away so there’s no ill feelings there,” Buttler stated