South Africa then came back from England to win the first T20 match, shortened due to rain, by five wickets. The DLS method won them that match — that’s all. Set at a neutral venue, the semifinal was a tightly contested match that was highlighted by a number of fiery performances. Yet the weather would play its part, restricting both sides to only nine overs apiece.
In reply, South Africa batted first, making 97/5 in 7.5 overs. Aiden Markram in particular was fearless, striking a blistering 28 off just 14 balls. Dewald Brevis supported his captain with 23 runs from only 10 balls. Donovan Ferreira made an impact of his own, contributing 25 off 11 balls. Their industriousness ensured that South Africa had a supremely testing target to defend through the rain-affected breaks in play.
England’s chase never got off the ground as they found themselves three down for just 15 runs. Star batsman Phil Salt was out on the very first delivery! He was out caught at fine leg, the start of a difficult innings for all. Harry Brook lasted only slightly longer, out for a duck after edging one behind from the medium pace of Corbin Bosch.
Jos Buttler attempted to stabilize the innings with a spirited performance, scoring 25 runs from just 11 balls, including three towering sixes. Yet, despite his aggressiveness, the team was unable to get up to speed on the run rate they needed to get well behind. Jacob Bethell then lasted just long enough to score 7 runs of his own and succumbed to pressure of South Africa’s incisive bowling.
South Africa’s bowlers were particularly impressive. Marco Jansen and Corbin Bosch both picked up two England wickets, sinking their teeth into the opposition’s order. Jansen’s bowling figures read 2-18, Bosch 2-20. England paceman Luke Wood was the standout bowler of the match, taking 2-22. Sadly, that wasn’t enough to help his side win their team’s debut game.
Rain restricted the final to only nine overs per side. This fascinating turn of events set up a thrilling double elimination threat for both squads! With DLS activated, England’s target was recalibrated to 69 runs in five overs. They could not cross the line, falling short at 54 for five including the skipper.
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