The Proteas have secured a place in the semi-finals of the ICC T20 World Cup, following India’s 72-run victory over Zimbabwe in Chennai on Thursday, according to reports from The Star and The South African.
South Africa’s qualification was confirmed after their own nine-wicket win against the West Indies earlier in the day, played in Ahmedabad. The Proteas now have four points with a net run-rate of 2.890. Zimbabwe has been eliminated from contention after losses to both the West Indies and India.
England had previously qualified for the semi-finals. The remaining semi-finalist from Group 1 will be determined by the outcome of the match between India and the West Indies, described as a “virtual quarterfinal shootout” by The Star.
Despite already securing their semi-final berth, Proteas captain Aiden Markram emphasized the importance of maintaining focus in their final Group 1 match against Zimbabwe on Sunday. “It can sometimes be more nerve-wracking to be honest, but you give them the absolute respect that they deserve,” Markram stated, as reported by The Star. “They’re there for a reason and have beaten some quality teams in the group stages.”
India’s win over Zimbabwe was characterized by a strong batting performance, with a total of 256/4, the second-highest in the history of the men’s T20 World Cup, according to reporting from ABC News. Hardik Pandya scored 50 not out off 23 balls, while Tilak Varma and Abhishek Sharma as well contributed rapid scores. Zimbabwe managed 184-6 in response, with Brian Bennett scoring 97 not out.
South Africa, currently topping Group 1 with a net run rate of +2.890, is expected to face the runner-up of Group 2 in the semi-finals, likely to be either New Zealand or England, according to The South African.
The semi-finals are scheduled for next Thursday and Friday morning AEDT, with the final to be played the following Monday, as reported by ABC News.
