Nadine de Clutch and the Proteas’ way of keeping the faith

Run a scalpel through Nadine de Klerk’s veins and you’ll probably encounter a block of rock-hard ice, unbothered by the inferno called World Cup cricket raging outside. It is quite something for a lower-order batter to come and save their side from impending defeat time and again, and do it in some style.

Two games. Two nights. The same coastal colosseum. One saw a fairly packed arena cheering on the local gladiators, while the other barely had any spectators, the crowd largely absent due to a lopsided pairing of rivals. However, South Africa – remarkably and frustratingly in equal measure – put on identical shows of spirit to walk away with victory, leaving its rivals in a spot of bother.

Against India, de Klerk walked in with 110 runs needed from 85 balls. Skipper Laura Wolvaardt, afte