Southampton, Aug 29: South Africa became the world’s top-ranked team in all three forms of cricket after Hashim Amla’s 150 led the Proteas to an 80-run thrashing of England in the second one-day international.
Amla became the fastest player in history to reach 3 000 one-day international runs. He reached the landmark in 57 innings compared to the 69 it took West Indian Vivian Richards, one of cricket''s all-time great batsmen.
The Proteas are now top in all three formats, the first team to achieve this feat. They only need to draw this series to cement their newfound status, while England must win it to remain in pole position in the 50-over format.
“Things have just fallen into place. Things have stacked up correctly for me and an element of fortune''s got to go your way. Fortunately, I''ve just tried to stick to the basics and things have worked out,” Amla said after his highest ever ODI innings.
The elegant 124-ball knock included 10 fours. However, England wicketkeeper Craig Kieswetter dropped Amla on 42 and 92, Sport24 reports.
Skipper AB De Villiers said: “Amla is on fire at the moment and breaking lots of records. As a team we are very proud of him. I hope he can continue like this for many years to come. We are proud to be No 1 in the world and we are working towards an ultimate goal of winning the World Cup.”
Amla, who made scores of 311 not out and 121 after being dropped by England during the recent Test series, responded by bringing up his century from 96 balls in the 41st over.
The third ODI will take place at the Oval on Friday.
© ANI
