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Former South Africa all-rounder Jacques Kallis has made his prediction for the winner of the T20 World Cup title. The summit clash between India and South Africa at Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados, pits the tournament’s only two unbeaten sides against each other, promising an exciting contest. South Africa secured their place in the final by defeating Afghanistan in the first semi-final, while India advanced after a dominant victory over England in the other semi-final.
In a video shared on his social media, Jacques Kallis has made his prediction for the winner of the T20 World Cup 2024 final. Not surprisingly, Kallis has backed his home country, South Africa, to emerge victorious and lift the trophy.
“My prediction for the final, of course, I’m South African, of course I’m going to back South Africa. Hopefully, they will bring it home for us and South Africa will win their first World Cup,” Kallis said in the video posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Jacques Kallis is widely revered as one of cricket’s greatest all-rounders, boasting impressive statistics from his illustrious career. Across 166 Test matches, he amassed over 13,000 runs and claimed 292 wickets at an outstanding average of 55.37 with the bat. In ODIs, he scored more than 11,000 runs at an average of 44.36 and took 273 wickets.
Despite his remarkable achievements, Kallis did not secure an ICC trophy during his international tenure. With South Africa now in the final of the T20 World Cup 2024, he hopes they can clinch their maiden ICC title.
South Africa has been formidable in the tournament, winning all their matches so far, including hard-fought victories against Nepal and Bangladesh. Their performance peaked in the Super 8 stage with notable wins over England and West Indies. In the semi-finals, they convincingly defeated Afghanistan, showcasing their strength ahead of the final.
While their batsmen have not consistently fired, South Africa’s bowlers have excelled. Anrich Nortje leads with 13 wickets in 7 matches, supported closely by Kagiso Rabada with 12 wickets in 8 matches. Left-arm wrist-spinner Tabraiz Shamsi, despite playing fewer games, has already claimed 10 wickets in the tournament.
South Africa faces a formidable Indian side in the final, which has also shown exceptional form throughout the competition. The clash promises to be a thrilling encounter between the two standout teams of the T20 World Cup 2024.