South Africa bundle out Afghanistan on 56, lowest score in T20 WC semi-finals

South Africa’s bowlers produced a dominant display in the first T20 World Cup semi-final, skittling out Afghanistan for a mere 56 runs. This score marks a new low for any team in a T20 World Cup semi-final, leaving Afghanistan stunned after their impressive run in the tournament.

This is also the first time that a team has been bowled out for under 100 runs in a T20 World Cup semi-final.

Early wickets set tone

After winning the toss, Afghanistan’s batting woes began early. They needed to navigate the challenging opening spells and survive the powerplay overs.

However, their hopes were dashed quickly as wickets began to tumble in rapid succession. South Africa’s Marco Jansen removed Rahmanullah Gurbaz in the very first over, setting the tone for a one-sided affair.

All records broken in South Africa vs Afghanistan

Lowest totals vs South Africa in T20Is

56 – AFG, Tarouba, 2024*
77 – SL, New York, 2024
80 – AFG, Bridgetown, 2010
81 – SCO, The Oval, 2009

Lowest totals by a full-member team in T20 WCs

55 – ENG vs WI, Dubai, 2021
56 – AFG vs SA, Tarouba, 2024*
60 – NZ vs SL, Chattogram, 2014
70 – BAN vs NZ, Kolkata, 2016

Lowest total for Afghanistan in T20Is

56 vs SA, Tarouba, 2024*
72 vs BAN, Mirpur, 2014
80 vs SA, Bridgetown, 2010
80 vs ENG, Colombo, 2012

Exceptional bowling display by South Africa

The rest of the South African bowling attack followed Jansen’s lead, showcasing exceptional skill and consistency. The Afghan batsmen simply couldn’t find their rhythm or counter the South African bowling onslaught. The scoreboard kept ticking over, but only in favor of the South Africans.

Record-Breaking day for South Africa

Afghanistan’s eventual total of 56 is the lowest ever recorded by a team in a T20 World Cup semi-final. This comprehensive victory puts South Africa firmly in control of the match and on the cusp of a place in the final.

Afghanistan’s woes

For Afghanistan, this crushing blow comes as a major disappointment after their impressive run in the tournament. Their batting lineup, which had previously shown grit and determination, was completely dismantled by the South African bowlers.

This match will undoubtedly leave them with a lot to learn and ponder as their World Cup journey comes to an abrupt end.

South Africa aiming for World Cup glory

South Africa, on the other hand, will be brimming with confidence after this dominant performance. They will be looking to carry this momentum forward as they aim to secure their first T20 World Cup title. The stage is set for an exciting final, and with South Africa in such commanding form, their opponents will have their work cut out for them.