South Africa Secures Semifinal Spot in ICC T20 World Cup 2024

South Africa T20 World Cup Semifinal: Calm Win Over West Indies

In a rain-shortened Super Eights match at the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 in Antigua, South Africa showcased composure under pressure to defeat West Indies by three wickets, securing their place in the semifinals. The match, held at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, saw rain delays which led to a revised target of 123 runs from 17 overs using the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method.

West Indies, batting first, managed 135-8 in their 20 overs, with Roston Chase scoring 52 runs and Tabraiz Shamsi taking three wickets for 27 runs. The Proteas’ chase seemed smooth until Alzarri Joseph dismissed captain Aiden Markram, causing some tension in the South African camp. However, a crucial over from spinner Gudakesh Motie, where he conceded 20 runs, turned the game in favor of South Africa.

Despite their history of faltering in critical World Cup stages, South Africa remained calm. Marco Jansen sealed the win with a six off Obed McCoy’s bowling, with Shamsi named player of the match. Shamsi remarked on the team’s composed mindset, even during tricky situations. Captain Aiden Markram expressed relief and urged the team to maintain their best form in the upcoming semifinal.

South Africa advances as Group 2 winners and will face the second-placed team from Group 1.