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In the 1st semifinal of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, the unbeaten South Africans will face the resilient Afghanistan team. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter as South Africa, riding high on confidence, takes on an Afghan side eager to make history by reaching their first-ever World Cup final.
Team Backgrounds
South Africa: South Africa has been in scintillating form, winning all their matches in the tournament. Their latest victory against the West Indies, by 3 wickets, showcased their resilience and ability to chase down challenging totals. Aiden Markram’s men are determined to break their semifinal jinx, having previously stumbled at this stage in 2009 and 2014.
Afghanistan: Afghanistan has captured the hearts of cricket fans worldwide with their spirited performances. They edged past Bangladesh in a nail-biting finish to secure their first-ever semifinal spot in an ICC tournament. Led by Rashid Khan, Afghanistan will look to continue their giant-killing spree and upset the formidable South African side.
Head-to-Head
The teams have clashed twice in T20Is, with South Africa emerging victorious on both occasions. However, with Afghanistan’s recent form, this match promises to be more competitive than ever.
Broadcast and Streaming
Live Streaming:
- TV Channels: Star Sports, PTV, Ten Sports, Willow TV, ESPN Caribbean, Sky Cricket, Sky Sport NZ, SuperSport
- Streaming Platforms: Disney+ Hotstar, Myco, Tamasha, ESPN Play Caribbean, SkyGO, NOW TV, Prime Video, SuperSport
Team Previews
South Africa
South Africa has been clinical throughout the tournament. Their balanced side, with a strong batting lineup and a potent pace attack, makes them favorites.
Predicted Playing XI: Aiden Markram (c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Keshav Maharaj, Tabraiz Shamsi
Afghanistan
Afghanistan’s journey to the semifinals has been marked by grit and determination. Their strong bowling attack has been their main weapon.
Predicted Playing XI: Rashid Khan (c), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Karim Janat, Nangeyalia Kharote, Noor Ahmad, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Pitch Report: The Brian Lara Stadium has offered a balanced surface with something for both batsmen and bowlers. Fast bowlers have enjoyed the new ball, while spinners have thrived on the slow, low-bouncing track.
Weather Conditions: Overcast skies with possible rain interruptions. The pitch is expected to assist bowlers initially, but it will become better for batting as the game progresses. A total of around 170 would be a competitive score.
Toss Prediction: Teams have preferred batting first in this tournament due to the slowing pitches. The toss winner is likely to bat first and set a challenging total.
Match Prediction
This match is a do-or-die battle, with both teams feeling the pressure. South Africa’s balanced lineup and their ability to perform under pressure give them a slight edge. However, Afghanistan’s ability to punch above their weight and their formidable bowling attack make them dangerous opponents.
Winning Prediction: South Africa to win