In a dominant display, South Africa thrashed Afghanistan by 9 wickets in the first semi-final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, played at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad.

Afghanistan folds for meagre 56

Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Afghanistan’s innings crumbled under superb South African bowling.

The entire batting line-up was dismissed for a mere 56 runs in just 11.5 overs.

Marco Jansen was the wrecker-in-chief for South Africa, claiming a spectacular 3 wickets for only 16 runs in his 3 overs. Kagiso Rabada (2/14) and Anrich Nortje (2/7) chipped in with crucial wickets as well, while Tabraiz Shamsi picked up 3 wickets for just 6 runs in his short spell.

South Africa cruise to victory

Chasing a paltry target of 57 runs, South Africa batters Reeza Hendricks (29 off 25) and Aiden Markram (23 off 21) stitched together a solid partnership of 55 for the second wicket, ensuring a comfortable chase.

Hendricks, in particular, played a crucial knock, smashing 3 fours and a six to take the game away from Afghanistan. South Africa reached the target in just 8.5 overs, losing only the wicket of Quinton de Kock (5) early on.

Player of the Match

Marco Jansen’s brilliant bowling performance, which included dismissing the dangerous Rahmanullah Gurbaz for a duck, was adjudged Player of the Match.

With this emphatic victory, South Africa marches on to the finals of the T20 World Cup, while Afghanistan’s dream run in the tournament comes to an end.

Here are the reactions of fans and cricket experts on South Africa’s victory:

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