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The semi-final 1 of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 between South Africa and Afghanistan is set to take place in Trinidad on Thursday, June 27. The match kicks off at 6 am IST, corresponding to 8.30 pm local time. Both teams are determined to secure their maiden ICC T20 World Cup championship, adding extra significance to this highly anticipated clash.

SA vs AFG Team Analysis

Afghanistan

Afghanistan has achieved a historic milestone by reaching their first-ever semi-final in the T20 World Cup. They have shown impressive form throughout the tournament, beginning with victories over New Zealand and Australia. This sets the stage for a significant semi-final encounter with South Africa, where Afghanistan’s well-rounded team, led by captain Rashid Khan, appears poised and fully ready to challenge the Proteas and potentially advance to the final.

South Africa

South Africa has maintained an impeccable record in the T20 World Cup 2024, remaining unbeaten thus far. Despite their strong performance throughout the tournament, their history in semi-finals and finals hasn’t been favorable, with their last semi-final appearance dating back to 2014.

The upcoming semi-final will be a critical test of South Africa’s prowess. They have exhibited championship-like form in this World Cup, but the stakes are high as a defeat at this stage would result in their elimination from the tournament, leaving no room for recovery.

SA vs AFG Key Factors

Pitch Conditions

Trinidad is ready to host the inaugural semi-final, where the typical first innings score hovers around 160 runs. Historically, chasing such a target has proven challenging, emphasizing the importance of a strong bowling lineup for both teams. Teams with adept bowlers will view 160 as a competitive benchmark, with anything beyond considered advantageous. Given the venue’s characteristics, spinners are expected to wield significant influence during this pivotal semi-final encounter.

Form and Fitness

Both teams enter the match without any injury worries. The performance of the bowlers will be crucial, with both Afghanistan and South Africa placing emphasis on their bowling strength. Afghanistan has relied significantly on openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran to provide solid starts.

South Africa’s batting lineup has seen notable contributions recently, especially from Quinton de Kock, who has regained form since the Super 8s. Heinrich Klaasen has also shown improvement, while David Miller and Aiden Markram have contributed valuable runs as well.

Tactical Acumen

Both Aiden Markram and Rashid Khan have a job on their hands in this semi-final. They will have to size the crunch moments of the game and both the captains have done that beautifully so far. Rashid being an all-rounder skipper and the leading spinner of Afghanistan would like to make the most of this opportunity.

SA vs AFG Score Prediction

Recent Venue Records (Brian Lara Stadium, Tarouba, Trinidad)

STATS – T20

Total matches                                 11

Matches won batting first               4

Matches won bowling first              7

Average 1st Inns scores                 135

Average 2nd Inns scores                122

Highest total recorded                   267/3 (20 Ov) by ENG vs WI

Lowest total recorded                    40/10 (18.4 Ov) by UGA vs NZ

Highest score chased                   156/7 (19.5 Ov) by RSAW vs WIW

Lowest score defended                149/6 (20 Ov) by WI vs IND

Who Will Score Most Runs For Afghanistan: Rahmanullah Gurbaz / Ibrahim Zadran

Who Will Take Most Wickets For Afghanistan: Rashid Khan / Fazalhaq Farooqi

Who Will Score Most Runs For South Africa: Quinton de Kock / Heinrich Klaasen

Who Will Take Most Wickets For South Africa: Kagiso Rabada / Tabraiz Shamsi

SA vs AFG Match Prediction– Who Will Win Today Match Semi-Final 1? ICC T20 World Cup 2024

Afghanistan are yet to beat South Africa in T20Is and they have a big challenge ahead of them in the semi-final. South Africa’s unbeaten record gives them the edge in the contest.

Conclusion 

It’s a massive game between the two teams. The winner will qualify for the T20 World Cup final for the first time and will face either India or England in the final.