T20 World Cup Semifinal, AFG vs SA | Playing 11 Prediction, Cricket Tips, Preview & Live Streaming

AFG entered the semis by defeating BAN [AP]

On Thursday, Afghanistan will take on South Africa in the first semifinal of the ongoing T20 World Cup. This is the first time Afghanistan will feature in the semifinal of the marquee event. 

Meanwhile, after entering the knockouts through several clutch performances, the Proteas would be keen to make their maiden appearance in the final, a feat they have failed to achieve on multiple occasions. The high-octane face-off is scheduled at the Brian Lara Stadium in Tarouba, Trinidad. 

AFG vs SA: Team Previews

Afghanistan

Led by Rashid Khan, Afghanistan punched above their weight, outclassing Australia and Bangladesh to make a grand entry into the semis. 

They were absolutely clinical in the group-stage where they stunned a formidable New Zealand side besides thrashing Uganda and Papua New Guinea. 

Under the watchful eyes of Jonathan Trott and the astute leadership of Rashid, they carried the momentum to the Super Eights, qualifying for the knockouts against all odds. 

Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran have been the chief contributors with the bat, while their all-round bowling attack has been the primary reason behind Afghanistan's heroics in the tournament. 

The lethal seam bowling duo of Fazalhaq Farooqi and Naveen-ul-Haq has run riot, with skipper Rashid weaving his magic in the middle overs. However, they are marred by middle-order batting woes, which they would like to fine-tune before the all-important semifinal. 

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South Africa

SA secured a thrilling win vs WI [AP]

On the other hand, South Africa have established themselves as a brute force, entering the semis as the second unbeaten side after India. 

They are high on confidence, owing to a phenomenal seven-match winning streak where they swatted aside teams like Sri Lanka, West Indies, Bangladesh and England. 

Despite being blessed with a super team, the inability to step up in crucial knockouts has always dented their chances in marquee events. 

However, their previous outing must've taken the Proteas' confidence to a whole new level as they emerged triumphant while holding their nerves during a crunch run-chase. 

Talking about their strength, the dynamism of Quinton de Kock and Heinrich Klaasen, coupled with the game awareness of David Miller will be key to South Africa's success. 

Simultaneously, they would be hoping better returns from Reeza Hendricks and skipper Aiden Markram, who have had a torrid run. 

In the bowling department, the Proteas will be dependent on the experience of Kagiso Rabada and Keshav Maharaj, while Anrich Nortje and Marco Jansen will pose serious threat to the Afghans with their pacy thunderbolts.

AFG vs SA: Match Details & Live Streaming

AFG vs SA: Brian Lara Stadium Pitch Report

Expect a fresh pitch for this vital match as it will be the first game at Brian Lara stadium after ten days. 

So, the fast bowlers might get some seam movement early on along with spongy bounce, which was the case during the league stage. 

However, once the batters adjust to the track's pace and bounce, they can get crucial runs under their belt. 

The spinners will also be in the game, getting a hint of turn throughout the day. Unless the pitch appears dry, expect the toss-winner to bowl first. 

AFG vs SA: Probable Playing XIs

Although Rahmanullah Gurbaz walked off the field midway during the AFG vs BAN encounter, we haven't received a major injury update on him. So, he will likely play this game. 

Furthermore, considering South Africa have a formidable bowling lineup, Afghanistan might replace Nangeyalia Kharote with Najibullah Zadran to strengthen their vulnerable middle order.

Meanwhile, South Africa will likely go with their winning combination against the Windies. 

Afghanistan: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (WK), Ibrahim Zadran, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Karim Janat, Rashid Khan (C), Mohammad Nabi, Najibullah Zadran, Noor Ahmad, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi

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

AFG vs SA: Fantoss Fantasy Tips

AFG vs SA: Winner Prediction

Considering the red-hot form of both teams, we expect an absolute nail-biter in Trinidad. However, given their pace bowling and ruthless batting, South Africa might edge out Afghanistan. 

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