T20 World Cup 2024: South Africa Triumphs Over West Indies To Reach Semi-Finals

South Africa secured a spot in the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup 2024 by defeating the West Indies by three wickets in a rain-affected Super 8s match held in North Sound, Antigua & Barbuda on Sunday, June 23.

Wrist spinner Tabraiz Shamsi (3/27), along with Keshav Maharaj (1/24) and captain Aiden Markram (1/28), restricted the West Indies to 135 for 8. South Africa then chased down the revised target of 123 with five balls remaining.

This victory placed South Africa at the top of Group 2, with defending champions England finishing second, thus determining the two semi-finalists from the group.

Tristan Stubbs (29 off 27 balls) and Heinrich Klaasen (22 off 10 balls) set up the chase for South Africa. Marco Jansen (21 not out off 14 balls) sealed the win with a six off Obed McCoy in the 17th over.

Kagiso Rabada's crucial cover drive off Roston Chase (3 for 12) when nine runs were needed from seven balls was pivotal as South Africa avoided their usual tag of chokers.

Markram's team is expected to face either Australia or Afghanistan in the first semi-final. Following the match, several cricketers praised South Africa and expressed sympathy for the West Indies.

Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra referenced Shakira's song "Waka Waka" from the FIFA World Cup 2010, posting on X, "Alright then...it's time for Africa. Unbeaten streak continues. Hosts eliminated. #IndvEng semifinal is loading."

Alright then…it’s time for Africa ????
Unbeaten streak continues. Hosts eliminated. #IndvEng semifinal is loading

Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) June 24, 2024

Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers celebrated the unbeaten run but reminded everyone that the Proteas have not yet played their best cricket despite their winning streak.

"Proteas! 7 in a row and off to the semi's. Well done guys," De Villiers posted on X. "Still feel their best Cricket is yet to come. Haven't really zoned yet. Nice to qualify for a semi final without playing at your best. Looks like they're close."

Former India batter S Badrinath also took to social media to commend South Africa's performance throughout the tournament and congratulated them on reaching the semi-final.

"Surreal performance from South Africa throughout the World Cup so far. Well done on making it to the Semi final! Hard Luck Windies," Badrinath posted on X.

Several team official handles also reacted to the result. Rajasthan Royals noted it was agony for one team and ecstasy for another before congratulating Keshav Maharaj.

"Rain. Emotions. A World Cup semi-final spot on the line. Yes, agony for Windies and ecstasy for South Africa but what also stands out is Keshav Maharaj's loooong hug to Hettie after the game just knowing what he must be going through," RR posted on X.

"Cricket was always a competitive sport but thank you IPL for helping us see the soft side, off the field! Well done, @keshavmaharaj16 and congratulations, SA."