The stage is set for a fascinating encounter as Afghanistan, the surprise package of the T20 World Cup 2024, take on South Africa, a team known for their close calls but ultimate heartbreak, in the first semi-final. This clash promises to be a historic moment regardless of the winner. While South Africa boast a consistent performance record, Afghanistan have undoubtedly been the revelation of the tournament. Rising above the struggles faced back home, they've displayed unwavering determination and fighting spirit. This was perfectly exemplified by their stunning upset victory against Australia, a team they'd never defeated before. Afghanistan's success is a testament to their team spirit. Captain Rashid Khan has been a constant force with his spin bowling, while pacers Fazalhaq Farooqi and Naveen-ul-Haq have provided crucial early breakthroughs. Gulbadin Naib's miraculous spell against Australia and Mohammad Nabi's unwavering consistency further solidified their performance. Opening batsman Rahmanullah Gurbaz leads the tournament in runs scored, while Farooqi tops the bowling charts with the most wickets. The sight of Afghan players outshining established names is a story in itself.
South Africa's Quest to Break the Cycle
South Africa, on the other hand, carries a different kind of burden. Despite possessing immensely talented teams in the past, they've never reached a T20 or 50-over World Cup final since their return to international cricket in 1991. To break this long-standing jinx, they need to overcome not just a formidable Afghan team but also their own history of near misses. If both teams manage to control their nerves, this first semi-final has the potential to be an unforgettable classic.
When is the South Africa vs Afghanistan T20 World Cup 2024 semifinal scheduled?
The South Africa vs Afghanistan T20 World Cup 2024 semifinal match is slated to be played on Thursday, June 27 (IST).
What time does the South Africa vs Afghanistan T20 World Cup 2024 semifinal start?
The South Africa vs Afghanistan T20 World Cup 2024 semifinal match will kick off at 6:00 AM IST.
Where is the South Africa vs Afghanistan T20 World Cup 2024 semifinal being held?
The South Africa vs Afghanistan T20 World Cup 2024 semifinal will take place at the Brian Lara Stadium in Tarouba, Trinidad and Tobago.
How can you watch the South Africa vs Afghanistan T20 World Cup 2024 Semifinal Live on TV in India?
The South Africa vs Afghanistan T20 World Cup 2024 semifinal will be broadcast LIVE on the Star Sports Network in India.
Where to stream the South Africa vs Afghanistan T20 World Cup 2024 semifinal Live Online in India?
You can watch the South Africa vs Afghanistan T20 World Cup 2024 semifinal LIVE online via the Disney+ Hotstar app and website.
Head-to-Head
South Africa and Afghanistan have faced each other twice in the T20Is, with the Proteas winning on both occasions. Both encounters took place during the T20 World Cup.
Afghanistan's squad:
Rashid Khan (c), Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Azmatullah Omarzai, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Ishaq, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Karim Janat, Nangyal Kharoti, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Fareed Ahmad Malik. Reserves: Sediq Atal, Hazratullah Zazai, Saleem Safi.
South Africa's squad:
Aiden Markram (c), Ottniel Baartman, Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, David Miller, Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs.
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