In a remarkable group stage performance, South Africa triumphed over Australia with a decisive 134-run victory, setting the stage for an electrifying semi-final in the ICC Cricket World Cup. This pivotal match is scheduled to take place in Kolkata on Thursday, November 16, with the first ball bowled at 08:30 GMT. Fans can tune in to live coverage across various platforms, including BBC Sounds, BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra, and the Sport News Center website, accessible via desktop, mobile devices, and apps.
Temba Bavuma, the captain of South Africa, acknowledges the heightened “emotions” surrounding the semi-final clash against Australia. The history of the Proteas in World Cup semi-finals is a tale of near misses and heartbreaks, including four previous losses, notably a dramatic defeat to Australia in 1999. “You can’t ignore or escape those emotions,” admits Bavuma.
However, Bavuma also highlights the strategies and mental tools the team has adopted to cope with the pressure and anxiety that come with such a high-stakes game.
The Proteas’ journey in past World Cup semi-finals has been a rollercoaster of emotions, marked by a rain-affected defeat against England in 1992, a loss to Australia in 2007, and a nail-biting defeat in 2015 against New Zealand, where Grant Elliott’s six clinched victory for the Kiwis in Auckland.
The 1999 semi-final against Australia at Edgbaston, however, remains the most heart-wrenching for South African fans. In what is celebrated as one of the most thrilling one-day internationals, Allan Donald’s run-out led to a tie, propelling Australia into the final due to their superior group-stage ranking. This match has since become an iconic moment in Australian cricket history, as noted by their current captain, Pat Cummins.
Looking ahead to the semi-final, South Africa has the edge, finishing one place above Australia in the standings. Both teams have showcased formidable form, winning seven out of nine group matches, but the Proteas’ superior net run rate gave them an advantage.
Their earlier encounter in Lucknow saw South Africa emerge as the dominant force, securing a comprehensive 134-run win. Bavuma, who is currently grappling with a hamstring injury, remains hopeful of participating at Eden Gardens. He expresses a sense of calm within the team, balanced with the expected levels of pre-game nerves.
The victor of this match faces India in the final at Ahmedabad, following India’s triumph over New Zealand in the first semi-final.
Australia, eyeing their eighth World Cup final appearance, have previously clinched the title five times. Seven of their current squad members were part of the victorious 2015 World Cup team, and they have continued their winning streak with the 2021 T20 World Cup and a recent triumph as world Test champions.
Cummins emphasizes the advantage of having experienced players who have been in similar high-pressure situations, stating that the team is motivated more by the challenge than by the weight of history.
With expectations of a spin-friendly pitch, Australia is deliberating between selecting batter Marnus Labuschagne and all-rounder Marcus Stoinis. On the other hand, Bavuma mentions that South Africa is likely to field their lead spinners, Tabraiz Shamsi and Keshav Maharaj, and will finalize their seam attack closer to the game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Cricket World Cup 2023 Semi-Final
What is the significance of the Cricket World Cup 2023 semi-final between South Africa and Australia?
The semi-final match in the Cricket World Cup 2023 between South Africa and Australia is significant due to the historical context and the intense rivalry between the two teams. South Africa aims to overcome their past semi-final disappointments, including losses to Australia, while Australia seeks to continue their legacy of World Cup successes.
When and where will the South Africa vs Australia semi-final take place?
The ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 semi-final between South Africa and Australia is scheduled for Thursday, 16 November, at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The match starts at 08:30 GMT.
How can fans watch the South Africa vs Australia World Cup semi-final?
Fans can watch the semi-final match between South Africa and Australia live on BBC Sounds, BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra, and the Sport News Center website. Coverage is also available on various digital platforms like desktops, tablets, mobiles, and apps.
What are the past World Cup semi-final performances of South Africa?
South Africa has a history of narrowly missing out in World Cup semi-finals, with previous defeats including a famous loss to Australia in 1999, a rain-affected game against England in 1992, a defeat by Australia in 2007, and a thrilling loss to New Zealand in 2015.
How have South Africa and Australia performed in the Cricket World Cup 2023 group stages?
Both South Africa and Australia won seven of their nine group matches in the Cricket World Cup 2023. South Africa finished one place higher than Australia in the standings, thanks to their superior net run rate. In their group stage encounter, South Africa defeated Australia by 134 runs.
Who will the winner of the semi-final face in the Cricket World Cup 2023 final?
The winner of the semi-final match between South Africa and Australia will face India in the final of the Cricket World Cup 2023. India secured their place in the final by defeating New Zealand in the first semi-final.
More about Cricket World Cup 2023 Semi-Final
- BBC Cricket World Cup 2023 Coverage
- ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 Schedule
- South Africa Cricket Team
- Australia Cricket Team
- Cricket World Cup History
- Cricket World Cup 2023 News
2 comments
awsm, luv readin bout da world cup. hope aus wins!
need 2 kno more bout dis tie-breaker in 1999, sounds epic!