Super 8 Qualification Scenarios: Why does South Africa run the risk of elimination despite being unbeaten in 2024 T20 World Cup?
South Africa have enjoyed an unbeaten run in the 2024 T20 World Cup, winning six games on the trot. They won all four matches in the group stage against Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, the Netherlands, and Nepal. The Proteas then clinched victories against England and the USA in the Super 8s to inch closer to the semi-finals.
It has been an interesting campaign for South Africa, as they have won most of their games by a close margin. This has surprised many pundits and fans, given the African nation's history of not handling pressure situations particularly well in ICC tournaments.
The Aiden Markram-led side have held their nerve in crunch moments, overcome the fight of opposition teams, and come out on top in all their games in this World Cup. However, despite remaining unbeaten in the competition, the Proteas are still in danger of getting eliminated in the Super 8 stage.
West Indies' thumping nine-wicket win against the USA has made things riveting in Group 2. The Windies are now level with England with two points and have the best net run rate of +1.814, significantly higher than both England (+0.412) and South Africa (+0.625).
England will square off against the USA in their last Super 8 match. A decent enough win will take them above the African team on the points table, as their net-run rates are in proximity. The Proteas have a tougher fixture against the West Indies. A win or a washout would ensure their qualification into the semi-finals. However, a loss might end their World Cup campaign despite winning their six previous matches.
Schedule for West Indies, South Africa, and England's remaining matches in Super 8s of 2024 T20 World Cup
Below is the schedule for the remaining matches in Group 2 of the Super-eight phase:
June 23 (local): Super 8 Group 2 - United States vs England | Venue: Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados | Start Time: 8 PM (IST), 02:30 PM (GMT)
June 23 (local): Super 8 Group 2 - West Indies vs South Africa | Venue: Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, North Sound, Antigua | Start Time: 6 AM (IST), 12:30 AM (GMT) (June 24)
Which two teams will reach the semi-finals from Group 2? Let us know your predictions in the comments section.