‘Devastated’ David Miller Reflects on South Africa’s T20 World Cup Final Loss

South Africa’s star cricketer David Miller has shared his feelings about their defeat to India in the T20 World Cup 2024 final. Speaking two days after the crushing loss, Miller expressed his deep disappointment, saying that words cannot capture the team’s emotions since their defeat at the Kensington Oval on Saturday, June 29. South Africa lost a match they were in a strong position to win, faltering in their chase of 177 runs against India.

In the final, South Africa needed 30 runs from 30 balls with six wickets remaining. It seemed like they were on the verge of ending their long wait for an ICC trophy. However, they couldn’t handle the pressure and fell short by 8 runs. This was South Africa’s first appearance in a World Cup final, and although they came close, they couldn’t secure the elusive trophy.

David Miller was at the crease when South Africa needed 16 runs in the last over. He attempted to start the over with a six off a full-toss from Hardik Pandya but was caught at long-off by Suryakumar Yadav, who made an incredible catch. Miller was visibly devastated as he walked off the pitch, knowing that South Africa’s chances had significantly diminished with his dismissal. The team struggled to find the big hits needed and ended their innings at 169 for 8 in 20 overs.

“I am devastated!! It’s a really tough pill to swallow after what happened two days ago. Words can’t explain how I am feeling,” Miller wrote in an Instagram story on Monday.

“One thing I do know is how proud I am of this team. This journey has been incredible, with highs and lows throughout the month. We have endured pain, but I know this team has the resilience and will keep raising the bar,” he added.

Few South African players have spoken about the heartbreaking loss. Throughout the tournament, South Africa had won close games, but luck was not on their side in the final. Heinrich Klaasen gave hope to millions of fans back home when he hit Axar Patel for 24 runs in the 15th over. However, Jasprit Bumrah turned the game around in his last two overs, conceding just six runs and taking a crucial wicket. Arshdeep Singh and Hardik Pandya then did well to close out the game, helping India end their 11-year wait for an ICC trophy in men’s cricket.

Virat Kohli was named Player of the Match for his 76 runs off 59 balls, while Jasprit Bumrah was awarded Player of the Tournament.

Published By: Akshay Ramesh Published On: Jul 1, 2024