In a gripping virtual quarterfinal match of the 2024 T20 World Cup at Antigua’s Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, South Africa secured a thrilling three-wicket victory over co-hosts West Indies. This win extended South Africa’s unbeaten run in the tournament and knocked West Indies out of the semifinals race.

First Inning: West Indies batting

West Indies’ innings got off to a rocky start, with Marco Jansen striking in the very first ball of the match to dismiss Shai Hope for a duck. The Proteas skipper, Aiden Markram, added to West Indies’ woes by removing the in-form Nicholas Pooran in his opening over.

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Despite the early blows, Kyle Mayers led a spirited recovery for West Indies. Along with Roston Chase, Mayers formed a crucial 81-run partnership for the third wicket. Mayers’ aggressive approach complemented Chase’s steadiness, helping West Indies regain control.

Middle-Order collapse

Just as West Indies seemed to stabilize, South African spinners Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi turned the game around. Shamsi’s spell of 3-27 included key wickets in three successive overs, while Maharaj’s stumping of Rovman Powell initiated a dramatic middle-order collapse.

Andre Russell and Alzarri Joseph provided a late surge, hitting several sixes in the death overs. Their efforts pushed West Indies to a respectable 135-8 on a challenging pitch, offering their bowlers something to defend.

Second Inning: South Africa’s chase

Rain interruptions led to a revised target of 123 runs from 17 overs for South Africa. However, their chase began on a disastrous note, with Andre Russell removing both openers, Quinton de Kock and Reeza Hendricks, in just the second over.

Russell’s fiery spell left South Africa at 2-2 early in their innings. His ability to generate pace and bounce troubled the Proteas, setting up an intriguing contest.

Crucial contribution by Klaasen and Stubbs

Heinrich Klaasen played a pivotal role in rescuing South Africa from a precarious position. His 10-ball 22 included three boundaries and a six, while Tristan Stubbs’ composed 29 runs at nearly a run-a-ball steadied the innings.

Roston Chase brought West Indies back into contention with a crucial three-wicket burst. His performance tightened the match, reducing South Africa to 110-7 in the 15th over and setting up a thrilling finish.

Tail-End heroics

With the game hanging in the balance, tail-enders Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada displayed remarkable composure. Jansen’s 21* off 14 balls and Rabada’s steady support guided South Africa to a narrow victory with five balls to spare.