T20 World Cup 2024 Semi-final 1: Top 5 Afghanistan Players to Watch Against South Africa

Attention shifts to Tarouba, Trinidad’s Brian Lara Stadium on 26 June, where the first semifinal of T20 World Cup 2024 between Afghanistan and South Africa is due to start at 8:30 PM local time—essentially 12:30 AM GMT on June 27.

This will be an action-laden yet technically outstanding exposure as both outfits will be gunning for one of those final two places. The entire fan world is waiting for this mother of all battles, as it comes after predominant journeys by both teams into the semi-finals.

The Afghan journey to the semi-finals has been nothing less than phenomenal. The campaign has been a testimony to their resilience and determination; the heart-stopping eight-run victory over Bangladesh really brought up the fact that this is not only strong in terms of fight but also forms the basis of their capability to cause off upsets against strong opponents. In this blog, we will take a look at the top 5 Afghanistan players to watch against South Africa during the all-important clash. Read till the end to find out.

Yet to lay their hands on a World Cup trophy, gearing up for this important clash, here are five Afghanistan players who could play a telling role in the match’s outcome.

Afghanistan players to watch against South Africa

1. Rahmanullah Gurbaz

Rahmanullah Gurbaz has been the best for Afghanistan, leading the run charts with 281 runs from 7 games. His aggressive batting and ability to play big innings has been the reason for Afghanistan’s success. Gurbaz’s 80 and 126.00 strike rate shows he can take on the bowlers. 3 half centuries to his name, Gurbaz’s consistency and flair at the top order make him the one to watch in this semi-final.

2. Ibrahim Zadran

Another key batsman for Afghanistan, Ibrahim Zadran is 3rd in the run charts of the T20 World Cup 2024. 229 runs in 7 games at 32.71, Zadran has been the anchor of the innings for his team. His 70 and 109.04 strike rate shows he’s the one who can anchor the innings and provide a platform for the nation’s finishers to launch. He will surely be one of the Afghanistan players to watch against South Africa.

3. Fazalhaq Farooqi

Fazalhaq Farooqi has been the highest wicket-taker of the tournament, showing his skills with the ball. With 16 wickets in 7 games, Farooqi has been a nightmare for the batsmen. His 5/9 shows he can win matches. 6.38 economy and an 8.75 strike rate, Farooqi can take wickets at crucial moments, he’s the one to watch.

4. Rashid Khan

Rashid Khan, one of the best T20 bowlers in the world, has justified his reputation, taking 14 wickets in the tournament. His variations and control have been key for Afghanistan, breaking partnerships and slowing down the scoring rate. 4/17 and 6.10 economy, Rashid’s impact with the ball can’t be ignored. His ability to deliver under pressure will be crucial for Afghanistan in the semi-final.

5. Naveen-ul-Haq

Naveen-ul-Haq, 5th in the World Cup 2024 bowlers list, has been another important player for Afghanistan. 13 wickets in 7 games, Naveen has been good in the powerplay and death overs. 4/26 and 6.12 economy shows he can restrict the runs and pick up wickets. Naveen’s all-round bowling will be crucial for Afghanistan against the strong South African batting lineup.

The semi-final is around the corner, these 5 Afghanistan players to watch against South Africa are set to decide the outcome of this big match. Fans and experts will be waiting to see if Afghanistan can continue their dream run or if South Africa can win and move one step closer to their first World Cup title.