South Africa close to T20 World Cup semis after winover England

GROS ISLANDS (ST LUCIA): South Africa have taken a giant leap to make it to the World Cup T20 2024, semi-finals breezing past England in a tense but exciting Super Eight match by seven runs at the Gros Island Stadium Friday.

England looked like taking the game away with South Africa fighting back through some exceptional catching to restrict them to 156 for 6, chasing 164 to win.

Captain Markram scooped up Harry Brook (53) diving full length to turn the right in South Africa’s favour.

For unbeaten South Africa it was their second victory which may be enough to take them through to semis.

With the win South Africa now look favourites to make it to the knock out stage. South Africa victory also opened up options for other top contenders West Indies from Group 2.

A 78-run stand for the fifth wicket between Brooks and Liam Livingstone (33) set up the run chase for England. Once Brook departed South Africa fought back to achieve win.

Earlier, Quinton de Kock (65) put up a solid show up front for South Africa, smashing four sixes and as many fours in his 38-ball knock to give a solid foundation to the team’s total. Man of the Match de Kock raced to fifty in 22 deliveries. He unleashed some quality shots against Jofra Archer (3-40) to help South Africa raise a competitive total.

Score: South Africa 163 for 6 in 20 overs (Quinton de Kock 65, David Miller 43, Jofra Archer 3-40). England (Harry Brook 53, Liam Livingstone 33, Kashev Maharaj 2-25, Rabada 2-32) Man of the Match: Quinton de Kock.