South Africa’s dominant win over UAE sets up a Super Eights showdown with India, despite a sloppy fielding display.
SOUTH Africa delivered a powerful statement ahead of the T20 World Cup Super Eights, cruising to a six-wicket victory over the United Arab Emirates.
The win completed a perfect group stage for Aiden Markram’s side, who now face a repeat of the 2024 final against co-hosts India in Ahmedabad on Sunday.
After restricting the UAE to 122-6 on a pitch freshened by morning rain, South Africa chased down the target in just 13.2 overs, finishing on 123-4.
READ MORE: South Africa advance to T20 World Cup Super Eights
The match was not without a concerning moment when UAE batsman Alishan Sharafu was struck on the helmet by a Corbin Bosch bouncer.
Sharafu was cleared to continue after a concussion check and went on to top-score with 45 runs for his side.
South Africa’s fielding performance was uncharacteristically poor, with the team dropping four straightforward catches in the outfield.
Captain Aiden Markram acknowledged the need for improvement ahead of the crucial India clash.
“We let ourselves down today in the field, not up to the mark at all,” said the captain.
“I’ve got no doubt the boys will be up for it again in Ahmedabad.”
For South Africa, Dewald Brevis scored 36 and Ryan Rickelton made 30 in the comfortable chase.
Player of the match Corbin Bosch was outstanding with the ball, claiming figures of 3-12 from his four overs.
The victory sees South Africa emerge top of a challenging Group D that also contained New Zealand and Afghanistan.
