South Africa put a kibosh on Afghanistan’s dreamy run in the first semifinal of the 2024 T20 World Cup in Trinidad, booking a place in the final of an ICC men’s event for the first time since 1998.
On a sprightly surface, South Africa’s pacers ran riot as Afghanistan were bowled out for 56 in just 11.5 overs – their lowest T20I total. Marco Jansen (3-16), Kagiso Rabada (2-14) and Anrich Nortje (2-7) took seven wickets between them while Tabraiz Shamsi struck thrice to bring a swift end to Afghanistan’s batting misery. The chase, despite the notoriety of the pitch, was mostly straightforward as South Africa romped home with nine wickets in hand and 67 balls to spare.
Brief scores: Afghanistan 56 in 11.5 overs (Tabraiz Shamsi 3-6, Marco Jansen 3-16, Anrich Nortje 2-7, Kagiso Rabada 2-14) lost to South Africa 60/1 in 8.5 overs (Reeza Hendricks 29*, Aiden Markram 23*; Fazalhaq Farooqi 1-11) by 9 wickets
South Africa now go where no Proteas men’s outfit has been to so far – to a World Cup final. Afghanistan will head home but can draw heart from their stellar campaign.
GONE! Azmatullah departs! 👀
Another wicket falls as Afghanistan batters have no answers to South Africa's seam bowling! 🔥
Is the match completely swinging in South Africa's favor? 🤔#SemiFinal1 👉 #SAvAFG | LIVE NOW | #T20WorldCupOnStar pic.twitter.com/pl7U4jMsFH
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) June 27, 2024
