New Delhi, Feb 28 (UNI) The penultimate Super 8 match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup sees unbeaten contenders South Africa take on eliminated but determined Zimbabwe at Arun Jaitley Stadium.
South Africa have been one of the most dominant sides in the competition, already securing semifinal qualification with a perfect winning record.
Zimbabwe, on the other hand, have been eliminated after heavy defeats in their Super 8 fixtures but will be eager to restore pride with a strong performance.
The match represents a battle between sustained tournament momentum and a side playing for reputation and experience on the global stage.
South Africa enter with a flawless run of five consecutive wins in their recent matches. Their most recent outing saw them post aggressive totals with ease, demonstrating superior batting depth and bowling discipline.
Zimbabwe’s recent record has been inconsistent, with two heavy Super 8 defeats overshadowing earlier group-stage success. Their bowling unit has struggled to contain opposition batters, particularly while defending totals after choosing to bowl first.
South Africa’s batting has revolved around the explosive form of Aiden Markram, who has accumulated 264 runs in six matches at a strike rate of 178.37. He has consistently provided strong starts alongside wicketkeeper-batsman Quinton de Kock, whose aggressive powerplay hitting has given South Africa early momentum in multiple matches.
The bowling attack is led by Marco Jansen, who has picked up 11 wickets in the tournament while maintaining economical bowling figures.
Zimbabwe will rely heavily on Brian Bennett, who produced a brilliant unbeaten 97 off 59 balls in their previous match. Captain Sikandar Raza will also be crucial, contributing with both bat and spin bowling in the middle overs.
The pitch at Delhi is expected to be batting friendly during the powerplay overs but may slow down as spinners come into play. Teams batting first have typically posted totals between 150 and 165 at this venue in this tournament. Weather forecasts suggest hot, hazy conditions with temperatures in the low 30s Celsius and minimal chances of rain interruption.
South Africa are likely to continue their aggressive brand of cricket, focusing on fast scoring during the powerplay and maintaining deep batting strength through the lower order.
Zimbabwe may attempt to bat first if they win the toss, aiming to put a competitive total on the board and avoid chasing under pressure against a dominant bowling lineup.
South Africa start as clear favorites with stronger form, greater batting depth, and more consistent bowling performances across all departments. Zimbabwe will need exceptional performances from their top order and bowling attack to challenge the Proteas.
South Africa are expected to continue their unbeaten run in the tournament, though Zimbabwe will aim to produce a spirited contest.
Teams:
Aiden Markram, Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Jason Smith, George Linde, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Quinton de Kock, Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Kwena Maphaka, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje
Zimbabwe: Tashinga Musekiwa, Dion Myers, Ben Curran, Sikandar Raza, Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Tinotenda Maposa, Brad Evans, Tony Munyonga, Clive Madande, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Graeme Cremer, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava
