On this day, June 2, 2024: Sri Lanka bowled out for 77 as Nortje picked up 4 wickets in the 2024 WT20. It was the third match of the 2024 WT20 World Cup played between South Africa and Sri Lanka. It was Sri Lanka who were batting first and it was very difficult conditions for batting as there was plenty of help for the pacers and batters found it tough in the powerplay. Pathum Nissanka was the first to be dismissed as he fell for 3 and Sri Lanka were in early trouble.
Kamindu Mendis and Kusal Mendis batted through the powerplay and ensured no wicket fell but the run rate was very low and they were finding it incredibly difficult. Anrich Nortje came into the attack and immediately dismissed both the batters. He bowled a terrific spell as he gave away only seven runs and picked up four wickets to completely derail Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka went from 31/1 to 45/6 in a matter of few overs. South African bowlers were clinical and finished things off as Sri Lanka were bowled out for 77 in the first innings. Anrich Nortje was the star performer picking up four wickets while he got good support from Rabada and Maharaj who picked up two wickets each. Baartman was also excellent, picking up one wicket and giving away only nine runs in his four overs. It was a stunning performance for South Africa in their opening fixture of the WT20.
Chasing the target, South Africa lost the wicket of Reeza Hendricks cheaply but the other batters chipped in with useful contributions as South Africa chased down the target in 17 overs and won the match by six wickets. It was a very difficult surface for batting and all the batters from both sides struggled. Anrich Nortje was the player of the match for his outstanding spell.
