New Zealand defeats South Africa in a thriller to enter final of ICC cricket world cup 2015

New Zealand defeats South Africa in a thriller to enter final of ICC cricket world cup 2015

The first semi final in the ICC cricket world cup 2015 was played on the 24rh instant betwen co-host New Zealand and South Africa both equally

formidable teams and having not played in a previous world cup final.The match was played under lights in front of a capacity attendance of 45,000 crazy fans at Eden park in Auckland,New Zealand.

The vital toss was won by A.B De Villiers,who had no hesitation to bat first under near perfect batting  and weather conditions.However to the dismay of the 45000 crazy fans rain interruped play at the end of the 39 overs for a good while which made the match referee David Boon to restrict the number of overs to 43 overs only per side.South Africa made an imposing 281 for the loss of 05 wickets in their allotted 43 overs.

New Zealand made a quick start and were cruising but had a few hickups half way through having lost McCmillan,Guptill,Williamson and Taylor rather quickly.However a defiant stand which later became destructive between Corey Anderson and 'man of the match' Grant Elliot made the formaidable task easy not until the final over when Elliot smashed a quick 05th delivery sent by Dale Steyn for a huge six over mid wicket to clinch a memorable win with just one ball to spare.Grant Elliot made an unbeaten 84 in 73 balls.By virtue of this win Co host New Zealand qualified to play in the final,the winners of the 2nd semi final between India wjich is to be played in Sydney on Thursday the 26th instant.

The espncricinfo full scoreboard could be viewed from below: