Watch: Aiden Markram claimed a sensational diving catch to give South Africa hopes of securing a stunning turnaround in their T20 World Cup opener against Australia.

The Proteas’ campaign got off to a horror start, with Josh Hazlewood working some new-ball magic to stall their innings before it had properly begun. The collapse continued throughout the innings, with a comedy run out seemingly confirming that this would be one of those days for Temba Bavuma’s team.

It left Australia needing just 119 to win, but South Africa took up the task gamely in defence. Three early wickets left Aaron Finch’s side 38-3 and struggling, only for Steve Smith and Glenn Maxwell to join forces and take the total up to 80, albeit without getting truly on top of the required run rate.

It was at this point that Markram supplied his sublime intervention. Smith made good connection with a pull shot, but the ball flew straighter than intended, and the top-order bat spotted his opportunity. He raced to his right, putting in a full-length dive to hold onto the tough chance.

“Markram has got a cape on here,” exclaimed Danny Morrison in imitable style.

“He’s moving like Usain Bolt and diving like Superman,” added Markram’s countryman Dale Steyn.

The catch sparked a fightback, with Maxwell bowled by Tabraiz Shamsi in the following over. However, Australia held firm to secure victory by five wickets with two balls remaining.

Watch the diving Markram stunner below:

 

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A post shared by ICC (@icc)

😱 WHAT. A CATCH! 😱

The diving Markram takes a blinder to remove Smith for 35 – brilliant from the #SouthAfrica fielder! 🦸#Australia need 38 from 30 balls…#T20WorldCup | #AUSvSA

📺 Watch live 👉 https://t.co/CypCDAWmM9
📱 Scorecard 👉 https://t.co/7VxadbERNV pic.twitter.com/1bGVPAKmIX

— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) October 23, 2021

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