Markram Lauds South Africa's Bowlers For Securing T20 World Cup Final Spot

South Africa's bowlers received high praise from Aiden Markram after their nine-wicket win over Afghanistan secured a spot in the T20 World Cup final. Despite losing the toss and being forced to bowl first, the Proteas quickly reduced Afghanistan to 28-6 in just 6.3 overs, thanks to standout performances by Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada.

Afghanistan's innings ended at 56 runs in 11.5 overs. Although South Africa lost Quinton de Kock early, Reeza Hendricks and Markram guided their team to their first men's world cup final. "We were fortunate to have lost the toss, I guess. We also would have batted, so we got a bit of luck with regards to that," Markram said during the presentation ceremony.

Markram acknowledged the bowlers' efforts, stating they had been exceptional throughout the competition. "The bowlers still had to get it in the right areas. They got enough balls in the right areas and made life really tough for the Afghanistan batters. So, credit to them," he added.

The victory marked South Africa's third attempt at reaching a T20 World Cup final, having previously fallen short in two semi-final appearances. "Chuffed to have got it over the line," Markram commented on finally advancing past the semi-finals.

Reflecting on their journey, Markram noted how close many of their games had been throughout the tournament. "A lot of our games have been really close," he said, acknowledging the narrow wins his side had achieved this year.

He also expressed gratitude towards fans back home who supported them despite time differences. "I know there (have been) a lot of people back at home in the early hours of the morning, waking up, and we (have been) giving them a lot of grey hairs. So, hopefully, this evening was a little bit more comforting for them," he shared.

"They've kept things really simple and sort of assessed conditions and adapted their plans accordingly. And they've been incredible for us so far," Markram concluded about his team's bowling unit.

The Proteas will now prepare for their historic final appearance in Barbados, hoping to continue their dream run and bring home their first T20 World Cup title.

FINAL BOUND | #SAvAFG The dream continues, South Africa! For the first time in history, the Proteas are through to the ICC T20 World Cup Final. See you in Barbados! #WozaNawe #BePartOfIt#OutOfThisWorld #T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/yW7n6vgyrI

— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) June 27, 2024