T20 World Cup 2024: All you need to know about semi-finals
India, Afghanistan, South Africa, and England are the remaining teams from the 'Super 8s' stage of the T20 World Cup. This tournament has been unique, with bowlers often outshining batsmen.
There have been several close matches, and more thrilling encounters are expected in the upcoming semifinals on Thursday.
India vs England
Date & Time: June 27, 7:30 pm PST
Venue: Providence, Guyana
Chance of Rain: 88% (no reserve day)
India has won 12 out of 23 T20 matches against England, which is 52%.
In T20 World Cups, both India and England have won two matches each in their four encounters. However, England won convincingly in their last meeting in 2022 by 10 wickets.
India won all their group-stage matches except one against Canada, which was abandoned. They easily beat Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Australia in the Super 8 stage.
Key players for India
Fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah and wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav have been exceptional. Captain Rohit Sharma is in great form with his batting, hitting lots of sixes. All-rounder Hardik Pandya has contributed significantly with both bat (averaging 58) and ball (8 wickets).
England (current champions, world number 3): Captain Jos Buttler's team has been dominant against weaker teams but lost to Australia in the group stage and South Africa in the Super 8 stage.
Key players for England
The opening pair of Jos Buttler and Phil Salt is known for their match-winning abilities. England's bowling lineup is deep and varied, featuring speedster Jofra Archer (9 wickets) and leg-spinner Adil Rashid.
South Africa vs Afghanistan
Date & Time: June 27, 5:30am PST
Venue: Tarouba, Trinidad & Tobago
Chance of Rain: 37% (with a reserve day available)
South Africa and Afghanistan have met twice in World Cups, with South Africa leading 2-0.
South Africa is the only unbeaten team besides India. They have won several close matches, proving they can handle pressure situations and are shedding their 'chokers' tag.
Key players for Afghanistan
Batsman Rahmanullah Gurbaz is crucial for Afghanistan. Captain Rashid Khan leads a bowling attack that includes effective pacers like Fazalhaq Farooqi and Naveen ul Haq.
Key players for South Africa
Opener Quinton de Kock, wicketkeeper-batsman Heinrich Klaasen, and fast bowlers Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje are key players. Spinner Tabraiz Shamsi is a surprise package.