Clubhouse

Why is South Africa Historically Known as Chokers?

Fresh Videos

By

South Africa's Bizarre World Cup History

South Africa Cricket World Cup
Photo courtesy of Cricket South Africa

South Africa's Bizarre World Cup History

South Africa Cricket World Cup
Photo courtesy of Cricket South Africa

Despite having tons of talent and depth on most of their World Cup rosters, South Africa has a very weird history of exiting from the tournament. Here are three specific examples that help explain why they're often referred to as chokers.

1992 | South Africa vs England

Dale Steyn India South Africa Cricket World Cup
Photo courtesy of @CricketScoreCom Twitter

1992 | South Africa vs England

Dale Steyn India South Africa Cricket World Cup
Photo courtesy of @CricketScoreCom Twitter

In a semifinal match against England in 1992, South Africa needed 22 runs from 13 balls when weather postponed the end of the match (Rain).

Following the the delay, in a wild turn of events, South Africa was put in the situation of needing 22 runs from 1 ball to survive in the tournament.

1999 | South Africa vs Australia

New Zealand Cricket World Cup
Photo courtesy of Attention Era Media Facebook

1999 | South Africa vs Australia

New Zealand Cricket World Cup
Photo courtesy of Attention Era Media Facebook

In 1999, South Africa tied things up with Australia in the last over. All SA needed was just one run from three balls. But, of course, something unpredictable happened that changed South Africa's fate forever.

South African batsmen Allan Donald and Lance Klusener had a miscommunication, leading to a run out. Australia qualified due to a better showing in the previous round, as South Africa once again choked in the final moments.

2003 | Losing in Group Stages

Chris Gayle West Indies Cricket World Cup South Africa
Photo courtesy of @StarSportsIndia Twitter

2003 | Losing in Group Stages

Chris Gayle West Indies Cricket World Cup South Africa
Photo courtesy of @StarSportsIndia Twitter

South Africa failed to get beyond the group stage in 2003 - with miscommunication once again being a culprit. The rain was in play again and there was some confusion in regards to how many runs were needed.

Nicky Boje supposedly told Mark Boucher a total run total required to tie the match, instead of the total that would win it. South Africa managed to tie the match, but did not win it.

Rohit Ghosh is a Senior Writer for www.Rantsports.com. Follow him on Twitter @RohitGhosh. “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.

Share Tweet
Trending Now on