Afghanistan vs South Africa Semi-Final: AFG vs SA pitch report, head-to-head, playing 11 predictions, live streaming, squads and toss time

Afghanistan and South Africa will lock horns in the first semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2024.

Afghanistan debuted in official cricket matches in 2004 during the Asian Cricket Council Trophy, which featured 15 teams. Fast forward two decades, they have achieved the remarkable feat of reaching their first World Cup semi-final in a tournament involving 20 teams.

In just 20 years, Afghanistan has accomplished what many teams might require 50 years to achieve. They have always possessed raw talent, which has now been complemented by refined skills honed through exposure to global T20 cricket.

Their captain and lead spinner, Rashid Khan, is arguably the most sought-after T20 player worldwide. Noor Ahmad, their second spinner, mirrors Rashid's left-arm style, while Rahmanullah Gurbaz, their opener, can dominate oppositions during the powerplay. Fazalhaq Farooqi is earmarked as the next Trent Boult in T20 cricket, and Naveen-ul-Haq's variations have impressed Dwayne Bravo, Afghanistan's bowling consultant and T20 veteran, who often celebrates near the boundary.

Eight of Afghanistan's XI that defeated Bangladesh in Kingstown were part of IPL 2024, showcasing their presence in elite T20 leagues. Meanwhile, Mohammad Nabi, who participated in Afghanistan's inaugural match in 2004, will feature in their first World Cup semi-final at the age of 39. Having triumphed over 45 teams in his career, Nabi aims to add South Africa to that list.

Despite Mujeeb Ur Rahman's absence after just one match, Afghanistan, under Bravo's tactical guidance, have showcased remarkable depth. They lead the tournament with 57 wickets taken and boast an economy rate of 6.35, second only to South Africa's 6.10 among the Super-Eight teams.

However, Afghanistan's batting depth, especially in the middle order, remains a concern. While Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran have forged four 50-plus partnerships batting first, their partnerships have been less consistent when chasing, with notable stands against PNG (8 runs), West Indies (0 runs), and India (13 runs).

South Africa might opt to make Afghanistan chase, aiming to dismiss their openers early and exert pressure on the vulnerable middle order. Keshav Maharaj, the left-arm orthodox spinner, seeks to exploit matchups against Afghanistan's predominantly right-handed lineup on the variable bounce of Tarouba's pitch. Tabraiz Shamsi, the left-arm wrist spinner, brings additional threat with his variations and familiarity with Caribbean conditions from his time in the CPL.

Despite Reeza Hendricks' struggles at the top, South Africa boasts a dynamic middle order with Aiden Markram, Tristan Stubbs, and Heinrich Klaasen capable of countering spin, complemented by the experienced finisher David Miller.

South Africa has overcome challenges throughout the World Cup, winning seven consecutive matches. They now aim to secure their maiden World Cup title, knowing that no team has ever won a T20 World Cup unbeaten, presenting a historic opportunity alongside India.

Afghanistan vs South Africa Squads

South Africa: Aiden Markram (c), Ottniel Baartman, Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, David Miller, Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs

Afghanistan: Rashid Khan (c), Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Azmatullah Omarzai, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Ishaq, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Karim Janat, Nangyal Kharoti, Hazratullah Zazai, Noor Ahmad, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Fareed Ahmad Malik.

Afghanistan vs South Africa Pitch Report

During the group stage, the pitch at Tarouba exhibited unpredictable bounce. However, Daren Ganga anticipates improved conditions with more consistent bounce following remedial work undertaken over the past fortnight. Dew has frequently played a significant role in CPL matches held at this venue.

Afghanistan vs South Africa Probable Playing 11

Afghanistan: Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk)/Hazratullah Zazai, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Karim Janat/Mohammad Ishaq (wk), Rashid Khan (capt), Nangeyalia Kharote, Naveen-ul-Haq, Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi

South Africa: Quinton de Kock (wk), Reeza Hendricks, Aiden Markram (capt), David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen, Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Tabraiz Shamsi

Afghanistan vs South Africa Live Streaming Details

The ICC T20 World Cup is being broadcast live on the Star Sports network. It is also being streamed live on the Disney+Hotstar app. The match will begin at 6 AM IST.

Afghanistan vs South Africa Head to Head

Matches Played: 2

Afghanistan wins: 0

South Africa wins: 2

Afghanistan vs South Africa Weather Report

The forecast for the first semi-final suggests minimal risk of rain. However, expect cloudy conditions as the match will be played at night. The temperature is anticipated to be comfortably cool, around 17°C, with cloud cover expected to range around 31%.

Afghanistan vs South Africa Toss Time

The coin toss will take place at 5:30 AM IST for the first semi-final. The match is scheduled to begin at 6 AM IST.