In a stunning turn of events, Afghanistan’s remarkable journey in the T20 World Cup came to a heartbreaking end as South Africa secured a decisive victory, advancing to their first-ever T20 World Cup final. The match, filled with high hopes for the underdogs, saw South Africa dominate with both bat and ball, leaving Afghanistan’s dream in tatters. This historic win marks a significant milestone for South African cricket, as they now look forward to competing for the coveted trophy.
South Africa (60/1) overwhelmed Afghanistan (56) by 9 wickets in the semi-final in Tarouba, securing their first-ever T20 World Cup final appearance. After 18 World Cups and 32 years, the South African men’s cricket team finally broke their semi-final jinx. Often labeled as the perennial chokers of the cricket world, South Africa now have a chance at glory and redemption. Cricket pundits believe this opportunity, long overdue, will culminate in a thrilling final on June 29 in Barbados.
South Africa (60/1) overwhelmed Afghanistan (56) by 9 wickets in the semi-final in Tarouba, securing their first-ever T20 World Cup final appearance. After 18 World Cups and 32 years, the South African men’s cricket team finally broke their semi-final jinx. Often labeled as the perennial chokers of the cricket world, South Africa now have a chance at glory and redemption. Cricket pundits believe this opportunity, long overdue, will culminate in a thrilling final on June 29 in Barbados.
Their opponents will be determined after India face England in the semi-final later in the day in Guyana. However, at the Brian Lara Stadium in Tarouba, it was all South Africa. The Proteas delivered an unprecedented performance with the ball, ending Afghanistan’s fairytale run in the tournament. This victory marked South Africa’s first in eight short-format World Cup semi-finals dating back to 1992.
“It’s an awesome feeling. The guys played really well, we executed perfectly. We just wanted to stick to our plan, bowl good lengths, and see how the wicket reacts. The wicket was getting a bit open, and it was about keeping it simple,” said Player of the Match Marco Jansen.
The left-arm pacer orchestrated Afghanistan’s collapse with the new ball, taking three wickets in the powerplay to finish with figures of 3/16. His new ball partner, Kagiso Rabada, was equally devastating. His double-wicket maiden in the fourth over broke the backbone of Afghanistan’s batting order.
ICC explains why India will play final if England semifinal washed out; rationale behind different rules for both semis
Rain and Rules: How ICC Regulations Favor India in T20 World Cup Semi-Final Against England
Rain has a way of following cricket, and the T20 World Cup is no exception. The much-anticipated semi-final clash between India and England in Guyana is under threat due to heavy rainfall, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the match. Reflecting back on the 2019 World Cup in England, where rain played a significant role, this T20 World Cup in the West Indies faces a similar predicament. Despite minor drizzles, India managed to avoid rain interruptions in their previous matches against Pakistan and Australia. However, the forecast for the semi-final day predicts heavy rain in Guyana, a city that has experienced continuous downpours for the past four days.
Rohit Sharma’s Indian team, however, has little to worry about if the semi-final against England gets washed out. Thanks to ICC regulations, India will secure a direct entry into the final if the match is abandoned, while defending champions England will be left disappointed. This scenario arises because there is no reserve day for this semi-final, a decision that has sparked debate. The first semi-final between Afghanistan and South Africa included a reserve day, but not the second semi-final. The ICC has provided an explanation for this contrasting treatment.
The rules, though controversial, favor India in this situation. If rain dampens the spirits of cricket fans tonight, India will benefit from the regulations and advance to the final without facing England on the field.
