Following an exhilarating Super Eight stage, the semi-final lineup features Afghanistan against South Africa. This clash of cricketing titans is scheduled for June 27th at the Brian Lara Cricket Stadium. Check out Afghanistan vs South Africa Semi-Final Predictions.
Match Preview
With high chances of rain, the semi-finalists must bring fire with them on the cricket ground as is expected in the first semi-final of the World Cup.
Afghanistan, propelled by its exceptional performance in the Super Eight stage, faces South Africa in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. With their recent victories showcasing their prowess, Afghanistan enters the semi-finals with confidence, eager to make history.
They made possible one of the historical upsets in the sporting world as they beat Australia opening their gates to the semi-finals. After the slim win against Bangladesh, they are confident going into what is the farthest they’ve been in an ICC tournament.
On the other hand, South Africa, having displayed resilience and skill in the Super Eight stage, presents a formidable challenge to Afghanistan. With a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talents, South Africa aims to secure a spot in the final and continue their pursuit of T20 World Cup glory. They defeated England, West Indies, and the USA in the Super Eight and are yet to be defeated in this World Cup campaign.
This match will be the first semi-final of this World Cup and all eyes will be on the Afghani side who are in red-hot form. The African side will also look to end their ICC trophy pursuit in this World Cup. There are high chances of rain in the match and chances of washout. There is a reserve day allowed for this semi-final. If the game is washed out, South Africa, because of their higher standing in Super Eight, will qualify. Check out the squad of both teams for T20 World Cup 2024.
Probable Playing 11s
Afghanistan
Rehmanullah Gurbaz
Hazratullah Zazai
Ibrahim Zadran
Gulbaddin Naib
A Omarzai
Najeeb Zadran
Muhammad Nabi
Rashid Khan
Noor Ahmed
Naveen-Ul-Haq
Fazal Farooqi
South Africa
Quinton de Kock (wk)
Reeza Hendricks
Aiden Markam
Tristan Stubbs
Heinrich Klaasen (wk)
David Miller
Marco Jansen
Keshav Maharaj
Kagiso Rabada
Tabraiz Shamsi
Anrich Nortje
Pitch Report & Weather Report
The Brian Lara Cricket Stadium typically offers a balanced pitch conducive to both batsmen and bowlers. The surface tends to be firm, allowing for good stroke play, while also providing some assistance to the bowlers, especially spinners, as the match progresses.
Trinidad and Tobago’s weather forecast for June 27th predicts a high likelihood of rain with scattered thunderstorms throughout the day. The temperature is expected to range from 26°C to 30°C (79°F to 86°F), providing comfortable playing conditions despite the rain threat. However, the persistent rain forecast raises concerns about interruptions and potential delays in the match.
Head-to-Head Record
Both teams have played each other twice in the T20Is with South Africa coming out on top in both of these occasions. Although South Africa holds the upper hand, Afghanistan is in the best form that they’ve been in so expect a thrilling contest.
Key Players
Afghanistan
Rahmanullah Gurbaz: An explosive opener, Gurbaz’s quick starts are vital for setting a strong foundation for Afghanistan.
Ibrahim Zadran: A consistent top-order batsman, Zadran provides stability and crucial runs for Afghanistan.
Rashid Khan: Rashid’s leg-spin is crucial for controlling the middle overs and taking pivotal wickets.
Fazal Farooqi: A key fast bowler, Farooqi’s ability to swing the ball and take early wickets is essential for Afghanistan’s success.
South Africa
Quinton de Kock: Aggressive opener and skilled wicketkeeper, vital for quick starts.
Kagiso Rabada: Premier fast bowler, dangerous with pace and swing.
David Miller: Hard-hitting middle-order batsman, known for finishing games.
Tabraiz Shamsi: Top-ranked T20 spinner, crucial for breaking partnerships and controlling runs.
Afghanistan vs South Africa Semi-Final Predictions
With both teams boasting formidable lineups, the match is expected to be fiercely contested. However, considering their recent form and the spin-friendly conditions expected at the Brian Lara Cricket Stadium, Afghanistan holds a fair bit of chance with a predicted chance of 35%, while South Africa stands at 65%.
