5 Dropped catches that proved costly in ODI World Cup

2. Herschelle Gibbs dropped Steve Waugh in the Super Six round in the 1999 edition

South Africa’s infamous tie against Australia in the 1999 World Cup semi-final still resides in the minds of Protea cricket supporters. The stalemate against the Aussies in the knockouts ended South Africa’s journey in the competition as Australia qualified for the final on the basis of points table standings in the Super Six round.

Both teams racked up six points each in the Super Six stage but Australia were superior to South Africa on the basis of the run rate. In South Africa’s elimination from the tournament, Herschelle Gibbs’ dropped catch against Steve Waugh in the Super Six round played a major factor.

In the Super Six contest, South Africa scored 271 in their 50 overs. Pursuing the total, Australia lost three batters at a score of 48 in 11.3 overs. Waugh came at number five and stabilized Australia’s innings. In the 31st over, the Aussie captain played a stroke towards the mid-wicket region against Lance Klusener. 

Herschelle Gibbs, who was guarding the area failed to be efficient and dropped the Aussie veteran. Waugh didn’t miss this golden chance as he scored an unbeaten 120 and snatched the game from South Africa. The stylish Aussie captain also got the Player of the Match award for guiding his team to a five-wicket win with his brilliant innings.