5 worst defeats for South Africa in ODIs

#1 7 wicket loss to Australia in World Cup semi-final at Gros Islet, 2007

After their traumatic ouster against Australia in the 1999 World Cup semi-final, South Africa got the chance to have their revenge eight years later in the semi-final of the 2007 World Cup against the same opponents. However, they fluffed their lines badly and ended up condemning themselves to the most embarrassing defeat in their ODI history. The South African captain chose to bat first but the Australian fast bowling trio led by Glenn McGrath and Shaun Tait put them to the sword.

By the 10th over, South Africa had been reduced to a pathetic 27 for 5 as they delivered one of the most shocking batting performances in their World Cup history. A defiant unbeaten 49 from all-rounder Justin Kemp saw them limp to 149 all out in 43.5 overs. Australia overhauled the target with ease and reached the final. South Africa, who were trying to bury the ghosts of the 1999 semis were now left to lick their wounds from a bruising and embarrassing defeat.