I will remember that match forever...

Some memories lasts for very few seconds but some remain forever. Being a diehard fan of cricket, I have seen many epic contests but the one which I will always remember is 1999 World Cup super six match between South Africa and Australia. Steve Waugh was at the helm of affairs for the Aussies while Cronje was the Protease skipper. SA was already in the semis but it was a do or die for Australia. SA scored 271 batting first. Protease under the headship of great Donald chocked the Aussies. The scoreboard was reading 56 for 3. Waugh, I guess, was waiting for the big stage to perform. He took the responsibility and Ponting gave him the support and runs flowed spontaneously from his willow.

Then came the moment of the day. While on 56, he flicked one through midwicket and the ball went straight into the hand of Gibbs. But overwhelmingly before completing the catch he celebrated and the ball went out of his control. Soon Steve said Gibbs "friend not only you dropped my catch but also the World Cup. “What amount of confidence!! How many players can do this?

But he was not only rhetoric in his words but also in deeds.

He created history scoring an unbeaten 120 and guided the Aussies home. The whole stadium gave standing ovation. I was a kid then but could feel the emotions. He has been my hero since then. He is the one who scored century at pits time and deserves more respect than others.

Pramit Mohanty (Cricketer)
Student, Kataka