Lara in a sorry state

Brian Lara is bowled for 21 as West Indies slip closer towards a World Cup exit © Getty Images

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West Indies captain Brian Lara apologised to the people of the Caribbean after defeat to South Africa all but confirmed the hosts’ World Cup exit.

The Windies were beaten by 67 runs in Grenada, their fourth successive Super Eight loss, after the Proteas compiled a mammoth 356 for four.

Lara said: “We are disappointed and we are really sorry for how we have performed over the World Cup. All we can do is say sorry to our people.

“We tried to prepare to the best of our ability but things didn’t work out. I can’t fault the guys but we didn’t come up trumps.

“South Africa gave a tremendous performance and getting 356 was always tough.

“It is a huge blow; the guys in the dressing room are not in a good mood. There are a lot of sad faces but we have got to pick ourselves up.”

West Indies still have matches against Bangladesh and England remaining and Lara hopes his side can end the tournament on a high.

He added: “There is no semi-final place for us but we still want to host a good tournament.

AB de Villiers celebrates his maiden one-day international hundred © Getty Images

“We have got to show pride and character to come out and perform.”

South Africa’s score was set up by a brilliant 146 from AB de Villiers, who put on 170 for the second wicket with Jacques Kallis (81).

Mark Boucher weighed in with a blistering 22-ball half-century in a stunning display of hitting late in the innings with Herschelle Gibbs, who made an unbeaten 61 off just 40 deliveries.

Man of the match De Villiers said: “It was very special for me - it was the first time I have made a century and I enjoyed every minute of it.

“I started getting cramps about 40 but I got through it and got to my hundred.

“I think it is important for an opener to be tight up front but at the same time play the natural game. I think I did it pretty well.”

Coming after defeat to Bangladesh on Saturday, the win puts South Africa back on course to reach the last four.

Captain Graeme Smith said: “I’m very chuffed. It’s been a tough two days after playing so badly in Guyana but all credit to the boys - they came out and played their natural game.

“In terms of the tournament, it was a big game. The two points were crucial and we played well. To get 356 was a superb total.

“I liked the way we played the game with a lot of energy and I think we had the game won early.”