New Zealand: The only serious hiccup for AB de Villiers as he guided South Africa to a 146-run win over the United Arab Emirates to confirm a World Cup quarterfinal spot was being dismissed one run short of his 21st one-day international century.
The South Africa lineup appeared scratchy at times after being sent in to bat Thursday, but piled on late runs to post a total of 341 for six.
It was always going to be too much against the bottom-place team. The UAE was dismissed for 195 in the 48th over in response, with Swapnil Patil scoring an undefeated 57.
The victory means South Africa finishes the group stage with eight points and likely in second place behind India in Pool B.
The South Africa lineup seemed far less assured in the first half of its innings, and it will have plenty to improve as it prepares for the knockout stage. The Proteas have been inconsistent in their pool games, twice posting 400-plus totals, against the West Indies and Ireland, but also losing to India and Pakistan.
Bureau Report
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