Cricket history was rewritten on a sunny Saturday in Delhi as the South African cricket team achieved a remarkable feat, establishing a new record for the highest total in the history of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
With an eye-catching performance that left fans and experts both in awe, South Africa posted a monumental score of 428/5 against Sri Lanka in their 2023 World Cup opener.
SA vs SL ODI World Cup 2023: A Dominant Display with the Bat
The stage was set, and South Africa’s batting lineup was ready to make history. Their batsmen, led by the dynamic trio of Quinton de Kock, Rassie van der Dussen, and Aiden Markram, unleashed an onslaught that the Sri Lankan bowling attack struggled to contain.
Dilshan Madushanka, representing Sri Lanka’s bowlers, managed to secure two crucial wickets, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the relentless assault. However, it was the sheer dominance of the South African batters that defined the day.
Earlier, Sri Lankan Captain Dasun Shanaka won the toss. After winning the toss, he opted to bowl first, a choice that would set the tone for the match.
In response, South Africa fielded a lineup comprising four pacers and one specialist spinner in Keshav Maharaj, exuding confidence in their batting prowess.
Sri Lanka, countering with three fast bowlers and as many all-rounders, aimed to challenge the formidable South African batting order.
South Africa’s World Cup Milestone
The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup has seen its share of memorable moments and record-breaking performances. On this historic day, South Africa added their name to the record books by surpassing Australia’s 2015 milestone, posting an extraordinary total of 428/5 against Sri Lanka in the 2023 World Cup opener.
South Africa’s other records:
1. Three 400-Plus Totals: In a single tournament, South Africa became the first team in World Cup history to record three 400-plus totals. Their batting display showcased the extraordinary firepower at their disposal.
2. Triple Centurions: The match witnessed a historic moment as three South African batters – Quinton de Kock, Rassie van der Dussen, and Aiden Markram – all scored centuries in a single World Cup innings. This astonishing feat underscored their unwavering determination and skill.
3. Aiden Markram’s Blazing Century: Aiden Markram’s explosive batting took center stage as he secured the record for the fastest ODI World Cup century. His breathtaking 49-ball hundred surpassed the previous record set by Ireland’s Kevin O’Brien during the 2011 edition.
Highest team totals in ODI World Cup
| Team Total | Match & Venue | Year | Location |
| 428/5 – SA | vs SL, Delhi | 2023* | Delhi, 2023 |
| 417/6 – AUS | vs AFG, Perth | 2015 | Perth, 2015 |
| 413/5 – IND | vs BER, Port of Spain | 2007 | Port of Spain, 2007 |
| 411/4 – SA | vs IRE, Canberra | 2015 | Canberra, 2015 |
| 408/5 – SA | vs WI, Sydney | 2015 | Sydney, 2015 |
Also Read: ODI World Cup 2023: Top 3 Captain Picks For IND vs AUS Fantasy Team
