Australia vs South Africa: The 1999 World Cup Semi-Final Tie
This is the match that gave South Africa a reputation for heartbreak at World Cups. It ended in the most famous run-out in cricket history.
Official highlights from the ICC YouTube channel. Press play, then use the full-screen button in the bottom-right corner of the player. Watch on YouTube
Match facts
| Competition | ICC Cricket World Cup semi-final |
|---|---|
| Date | 17 June 1999 |
| Venue | Edgbaston, Birmingham |
| Result | Match tied, Australia went through on their better Super Six record |
The story of the match
Shaun Pollock took five wickets as Australia were bowled out for 213, with Michael Bevan and Steve Waugh making half-centuries. South Africa’s chase was strangled by Shane Warne, who took four wickets.
Lance Klusener, the player of the tournament, brought South Africa to the last over needing nine. He hit Damien Fleming for two fours to level the scores with four balls left. Then he hit the ball to mid-off and ran, Allan Donald stayed in his crease, dropped his bat, and was run out by a distance.
Key moments to watch for
- Pollock’s five wickets
- Warne’s spell turns the chase
- Klusener’s two fours in the last over
- The Donald run-out
Why it’s one of the greatest cricket matches ever
Because Australia had finished above South Africa in the Super Six stage, a tie sent them through. They went on to win the final, and this match is still the benchmark for World Cup drama.
More classic cricket matches
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- Australia vs India: India Breach the Gabba, 2021
- Glenn Maxwell 201*: Australia vs Afghanistan, 2023 World Cup
See all 40 on our list of the greatest matches ever, or catch up on this season on the latest highlights page.
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