South Africa’s dominant victory over Afghanistan

South Africa secured a dominant nine-wicket victory over Afghanistan in the T20 World Cup 2024 semi-final in Trinidad

South Africa secured a dominant nine-wicket victory over Afghanistan in the T20 World Cup 2024 semi-final in Trinidad, thanks to exceptional performances from Marco Jansen and Tabraiz Shamsi. Both bowlers took three wickets each, bowling Afghanistan out for a mere 56 runs in under 12 overs at the Brian Lara Stadium, marking Afghanistan’s lowest-ever T20 international score. When Afghani’s opened the innings Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmanullah Gurbaz started the race with the bats, but Jansen quickly dismissed Gurbaz in the first over. Jansen struck again, taking out Gulbadin Naib, leaving Afghanistan struggling early. Kagiso Rabada joined the attack, dismissing Ibrahim Zadran and Mohammad Nabi, reducing Afghanistan to 20/3 in just over three overs. By the end of the powerplay, Afghanistan was reeling at 23/5.

Anrich Nortje and Shamsi continued to dismantle the batting lineup, with Shamsi taking crucial middle-order wickets. Afghanistan was eventually all out for 56, setting South Africa a target of just 57 runs. Quinton de Kock fell early to Fazalhaq Farooqi, providing Afghanistan with a brief glimmer of hope. Reeza Hendricks and captain Aiden Markram ensured there were no further setbacks, guiding South Africa to victory within nine overs. This victory marked South Africa’s first win in eight short-format World Cup semi-finals since 1992, setting them up for their inaugural final appearance on Saturday. They will face the winner of the second semi-final between India and defending champions England.