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The T20 World Cup 2024 has reached its thrilling semifinal stage. In the first semifinal, South Africa crushed Afghanistan by nine wickets at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad, securing their place in the final. Now, all eyes are on the second semifinal, where India and England will lock horns at the Providence Stadium in Guyana.
Brad Hogg’s bold prediction for T20 World Cup 2024 winner
Former Australian spinner Brad Hogg has made a bold prediction about the tournament’s winner, expressing his belief that South Africa will clinch the trophy. Speaking on Star Sports Press Room Show, Hogg praised South Africa’s balanced squad and strong spin options, highlighting their undefeated run in the tournament so far. South Africa’s victories in the tournament include thrilling wins against Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, England and the co-host West Indies.
“I think it is going to be South Africa and they have got a really strong squad, good spin with Shamsi and Maharaj. I don’t plan on the big nations now, and I think they’ll have to go out there and play it out again instead and just have that confidence to go with the final side. I just think they’ve got the team balanced and they have got the aggression as well,” Hogg said.
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Praise for leadership
Hogg also commended Aiden Markram‘s ability to remain calm and composed as captain in high-pressure situations. Markram’s leadership has been a crucial factor in South Africa’s success, steering the team through close games and ensuring their place in the final.
“I really like Markram as the captain. He is correct and very composed. And I also think, we are going to win as a very well-composed team, not panicking and just setting the right conditions,” Hogg concluded.
Quest for ICC title
South Africa, along with India, remains undefeated in the tournament. However, the Proteas have a history of struggling in knockout matches. Despite reaching the semifinals of T20 World Cups seven times, they have never made it to the final until now. This year’s performance marks their first appearance in a T20 World Cup final, and the team will be determined to clinch their maiden ICC title.