Who: Afghanistan vs South Africa
What: ICC T20 World Cup 2024 semifinal
When: Wednesday, June 26, 8:30pm local time (00:30 GMT, June 27)
Where: Brian Lara Cricket Academy, San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago
Fourteen years after their debut at the ICC T20 Cricket World Cup, Afghanistan has made it to the semifinals. A resilient journey led Afghanistan to their first ICC men’s World Cup semifinal, defying the odds. Rashid Khan aims to make Brian Lara proud as the only pundit who predicted their success. Afghanistan faces South Africa, one of the unbeaten teams in the tournament, in a challenging encounter. Afghanistan coach Jonathan Trott emphasizes the importance of balance and focus for his team in this new experience. South Africa, no stranger to pressure, seeks to overcome past World Cup disappointments. Coach Rob Walter expresses a blend of anxiety and excitement as Proteas aim for their maiden World Cup triumph. Weather conditions may play a factor in the match, but chances of disruption seem minimal in San Fernando. Special rules for the semifinal include extra time and a reserve day allocated for completion in case of interruptions. In case of a washout, the team finishing first in their group will advance to the final. Head-to-head record favors South Africa, having won both previous encounters against Afghanistan in the T20 World Cups. Afghanistan's form has been inconsistent, while South Africa stands strong as one of the tournament favorites.

‘Unchartered territory’

Afghanistan's quick turnaround from their qualifying win sets the stage for a crucial face-off against South Africa. Coach Trott stresses the importance of improvement and adaptability for Afghanistan in the semifinal. Afghanistan, a side with nothing to lose, poses a challenge with their fearless approach against South Africa.

‘Great to dream’

South Africa's history of near misses in World Cups adds pressure and motivation as they prepare to face Afghanistan. Coach Walter acknowledges the team's ability to navigate challenges and is optimistic about their chances in the tournament. The pursuit of a maiden World Cup triumph drives South Africa to give their all in the semifinal against Afghanistan.

Pitch condition and toss

The pitch in San Fernando favors bowlers, with low-scoring games attributed to the surface rather than team performance. Toss-winning captains opting to field first is a trend in the tournament, suggesting a similar approach in the semifinal.

Weather forecast

The match faces a rain threat, but the evening forecast offers hope for an uninterrupted game under the lights.

Special conditions and rules

Extra time and a reserve day are set aside for the semifinal, ensuring a fair completion of the match in case of disruptions.

Outcome of a washout

In the event of a washout, the table-toppers from the super eight group standings will advance, favoring South Africa.

Head-to-head

Past encounters between Afghanistan and South Africa show a dominant record for the Proteas in previous T20 World Cups.

Form guide

Afghanistan's journey has been marked by highs and lows, while South Africa's unbeaten streak signals their championship potential.

Afghanistan team news

Afghanistan likely to retain their XI for the semifinal clash against South Africa, barring any last-minute injuries. Captain Rashid Khan leads a determined squad ready to take on the challenge.

South Africa team news

South Africa may opt for tactical changes to counter Afghanistan's strengths in the crucial semifinal encounter. A balanced Proteas lineup aims to capitalize on their momentum in the tournament.