South Africa secured a historic spot in their first-ever T20 World Cup final with a dominating performance against Afghanistan in the first semi-final in Trinidad on Wednesday. Marco Jansen and Tabraiz Shamsi were the stars with the ball, each taking three wickets to skittle Afghanistan for just 56 runs. South Africa chased down the target with ease, sealing a nine-wicket victory.
A Breakthrough Victory
This win marks South Africa’s first victory in eight short-format World Cup semi-finals, a drought that dates back to 1992. The Proteas will now face the winner of Thursday’s second semi-final between India and reigning champions England.
Dominating the Afghan Batting Lineup
Afghanistan, having won the toss and chosen to bat, were quickly on the back foot. Rahmanullah Gurbaz, the tournament’s leading run-scorer, was dismissed for a duck by left-arm quick Marco Jansen (3-16) in the opening over. Jansen continued his onslaught by bowling Gulbadin Naib for nine in the third over.
From the other end, Kagiso Rabada (2-14) delivered a superb spell, dismissing Ibrahim Zadran and Mohammad Nabi for just two runs apiece in the fourth over. Anrich Nortje (2-7) and left-arm wrist spinner Tabraiz Shamsi (3-6) then cleaned up the tail, ensuring Afghanistan’s lowest ever score in T20 internationals and making them the first team to score fewer than 100 runs in a T20 World Cup semi-final.
South Africa’s Calm Chase
Despite losing opener Quinton de Kock early to Fazalhaq Farooqi, who took his 17th wicket of the tournament, South Africa’s chase was steady and composed. Reeza Hendricks and skipper Aiden Markram guided their team to victory without further losses, reaching the target in less than nine overs. Hendricks finished unbeaten on 29, while Markram contributed 23 not out.
Road to the Final
South Africa’s journey to the final has been marked by a series of impressive performances, extending their winning streak at the tournament to eight matches. This victory is particularly significant as it breaks the Proteas’ long-standing semi-final curse in major ICC tournaments.
Looking Ahead
South Africa will now prepare for their first T20 World Cup final on Saturday, where they will face either India or England. The team will be buoyed by their dominant performance against Afghanistan and their unbeaten run in the tournament.
Conclusion
South Africa’s comprehensive nine-wicket victory over Afghanistan in the T20 World Cup semi-final marks a significant milestone in their cricketing history. With standout performances from Marco Jansen and Tabraiz Shamsi, the Proteas have showcased their prowess and resilience, setting the stage for an exciting final.
