Heinrich Klaasen apologized to Mark Wood for an enthusiastic century celebration that included a loud roar after reaching his hundred with back-to-back boundaries off Wood’s bowling.
South Africa secured their biggest ODI victory over England in terms of run margin, winning by a massive 229 runs during the 2023 Cricket World Cup match at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday, October 21. Heinrich Klaasen’s fiery century, an explosive 109 off 67 balls, powered South Africa to a record-breaking total of 399/7, marking the most runs conceded by England in their ODI history.
Klaasen reached his hundred with back-to-back boundaries off England’s Mark Wood and let out a powerful roar. Notably, his exuberant celebration was directed at England’s pacer Mark Wood, who was left unimpressed by the display. Realizing the emotional intensity, he then promptly apologized to Wood.
England struggled in their chase and were eventually bowled out for 170 in just 22 overs.
After the match, Klaasen expressed the pain he felt after receiving two blows to his foot from Wood’s bowling, which triggered his emotional celebration. He clarified that he hadn’t said anything to Wood during the incident but promptly offered his apologies both immediately and after the game.
“I didn’t say anything to him. I did go and apologize immediately and after the game. He did hit me twice on the foot, which is hurting quite a bit, it’s just pure emotion. And yeah, once again, I’m sorry for him and to the English boys but it’s pure emotion that just came out and sometimes it’s difficult to control,” said Klaasen.
He further stated, “I did apologize straight away and spoke to him after the game, and hopefully from my side, everything is sorted.”
England’s captain, Jos Buttler, acknowledged that Klaasen’s celebration in Wood’s face wasn’t necessary but commended him for recognizing his mistake and offering amends.
In the ongoing tournament, Klaasen joins an exclusive group of South African centurions, which includes Quinton de Kock, Aiden Markram, and Rassie van der Dussen, making him the fourth to achieve this feat for his team.
Last Updated on October 22, 2023
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