Picture Credit: AFP/ ICC/ Getty Images
South Africa extended their flawless run in the tournament with a five-wicket triumph against Zimbabwe in their Super Eights fixture at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday.
The victory ensured that the Proteas advanced to the semi-finals without suffering a defeat in the competition so far.
Pursuing a target of 154, South Africa encountered immediate setbacks as Sikandar Raza produced a sharp opening spell.
He dismissed Quinton de Kock and Aiden Markram in quick succession, placing the chase under pressure. Although Ryan Rickelton responded with aggressive strokeplay, including three sixes, Zimbabwe reduced the Proteas to 43 for 3.
Brevis and Miller Shift Momentum
Dewald Brevis then counter-attacked with authority, striking two fours and four sixes in a rapid 42 off just 18 deliveries to swing the momentum. David Miller complemented him with brisk boundaries, accelerating the scoring rate.
Zimbabwe, however, continued to compete fiercely. Blessing Muzarabani and Raza removed both set batters to keep the contest finely balanced.
Raza concluded with impressive bowling figures of 3 for 29, adding to his earlier 73 with the bat.
Needing 51 runs from 54 balls, George Linde and Tristan Stubbs steadied the innings. Linde struck a crucial six and found boundaries through the leg side, while Stubbs rotated the strike efficiently to ease the pressure.
The pair guided South Africa to the target with 13 deliveries remaining, confirming a semi-final meeting with New Zealand in Kolkata and preserving their unbeaten status in the tournament.
Also Read: T20 WC Showdown: India And West Indies Battle For Semi-Final Spot At Eden Gardens
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