South Africa beats Afghanistan, reaches T20 World Cup final
The Afghanistan national cricket team suffered a defeat against South Africa in the semi-finals of the Twenty20 World Cup today, on Thursday, June 27th.
The match began at 5 PM Afghanistan time, with Afghanistan winning the toss and opting to field. Despite losing all their wickets for less than 10 overs, Afghanistan target 57 for South Africa.
Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada tore through Afghanistan’s batting lineup, reducing them to 20-4 within just four overs. Afghanistan eventually collapsed, all out for a mere 56 runs.
South Africa chased down the target comfortably, losing just one wicket in their pursuit of their first semifinal victory in a global men’s limited-overs tournament. Reeza Hendricks played a crucial role, smashing a six and a four in consecutive deliveries to guide South Africa to 60 for 1 by the ninth over.
Reeza Hendricks remained unbeaten on 29 runs off 25 balls, partnering with captain Aiden Markram, who contributed 23 not out. Their unbroken 55-run partnership for the second wicket ensured South Africa’s smooth victory.
South Africa comfortably chased down the target of 57 runs to secure victory.
Only Hazratullah Zazai scored 10 runs among Afghanistan’s players, with other batsmen being dismissed in less than ten overs. With this match, Afghanistan’s journey in the World Cup competition came to an end.
The Afghanistan cricket team showcased remarkable performances in the group stage and the Super 8s of this year’s Twenty20 World Cup, reaching the semi-finals for the first time.
South Africa will play in the final at Barbados on Saturday against either defending champion England or India.
After the match, Markram expressed his excitement in a TV interview, saying, “It’s an exciting challenge for us. We’ve never reached a final before, but we’re not afraid. It’s a great opportunity that we’re really looking forward to.”
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