Lucknow: After losing to Team India by 6 wickets four days ago in their World Cup opener, Australia were outplayed on Thursday by South Africa.
Five-time champions Australia dropped catches galore as South Africa rode opener Quinton de Kock’s 109 – his second century in as many matches – to a total of 311/7.
Australia made a sedate start and started losing wickets to slump to 70/6 in the 18th over. They ultimately limped to 177 all out to suffer a 124-run defeat – their biggest loss in World Cup history.
Australia will be desperate for their first victory when they face Sri Lanka on October 16 at the same venue.
South Africa, who are top of the standings thanks to a strong net run rate of +2.360, next play minnows The Netherlands on October 17.
