South Africa has secured a spot in the T20 World Cup semi-finals after a dramatic three-wicket victory over co-hosts West Indies, achieved through the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method. 

South Africa has reached the semi-final of the T20 World Cup after 10 years. This is their third semi-final appearance, having reached this stage in 2009 and 2014 but falling short against Pakistan and India, respectively.

In a crucial Super 8s match in Antigua, the game was essentially a quarter-final to decide whether the second team would progress from Group 2 after England secured their place in the last four. Chasing a revised target of 123, South Africa lost both their openers inside the first two overs, but small contributions from the middle order helped them cross the line in the low-scoring thriller. 

 

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South Africa’s bowlers set the tone by restricting West Indies to 135-8. Tabraiz Shamsi was particularly effective, taking 3-28, supported by captain Aiden Markram and Keshav Maharaj, who kept the West Indies’ powerful batting lineup in check. 

Historically, rain-affected games have not favored South Africa. The infamous “22 off 1 ball” incident in the 1992 World Cup semi-final against England is a prime example. However, the Proteas kept their nerves and adapted to the conditions this time. The rain delay in Antigua could have derailed their efforts, but instead, it was a turning point. Upon resumption, quick boundaries regained South Africa’s momentum.

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Key Contributions

South Africa’s spinners were instrumental in their success against the West Indies. Although not a genuine all-rounder, Aiden Markram bowled his full quota of overs early on, taking the key wicket of Nicholas Pooran. Shamsi and Maharaj followed suit, dismantling the West Indies middle order. 

Shamsi continued his good form and contributed with the key wickets of  Roston Chase, Kyle Mayers, and the dangerous Sherfane Rutherford. He has been the mainstay of Proteas bowling this World Cup and has taken 8 wickets in 3 matches. 

Considering the pitch’s spin support, Rabada was not used at the start of the innings and was held back until the 18th over. Rabada’s late introduction became a very good move, as his 18th over resulted in just 1 run and 2 wickets, including the run out of the dangerous Russel, who started smashing Nortje.

Post-Match Reactions

Reflecting on the match, Aiden Markram expressed relief and a desire for more convincing performances. He acknowledged the team’s pattern of finding themselves in tricky situations but praised the team’s ability to prevail. 

West Indies captain Rovman Powell commended his team’s fighting spirit despite losing. He highlighted West Indies cricket’s progress over the past year, increasing the rankings and creating a buzz in their cricketing circles. Despite the defeat, this positive outlook reflects the hard work and potential of the West Indies team.

Unbeaten Streak and Future Hopes

South Africa’s unbeaten streak in the tournament, now extended to seven matches, reflects a team effort where different players have stepped up at crucial moments. 

As AB De Villiers said in a tweet, the Proteas have yet to perform at their best. If they have reached the semis without playing at their best, they can go all the way and win the tournament this time. Their ability to win tight games in these tournaments is a sign of hope that the team is not under pressure and can do well in the knockouts. 

Final Thoughts

South Africa’s journey to the semi-finals is significant not only for breaking their semi-final jinx but also for how they achieved it. Unlike previous campaigns where external factors like rain have often been blamed for their exits, they adapted and overcame this time. 

The Proteas will face the runners-up from Group 1. The exact semi-final matchups will depend on India’s final group position. South Africa’s form and team cohesion make them a formidable contender regardless of their opponent.