The 2024 T20 World Cup witnessed a heartwarming moment after South Africa’s dominant semi-final victory over Afghanistan. Kagiso Rabada, one of the architects of the Proteas’ win with his two wickets, presented a signed jersey to Dwayne Bravo, Afghanistan’s bowling consultant throughout the tournament. This gesture captured the spirit of sportsmanship amidst the elation of reaching the final.
Rabada, fresh from a phenomenal bowling performance that restricted Afghanistan to a mere 56 runs, emerged from the tunnel holding his match jersey. He then signed it and presented it to Bravo, who had played a crucial role in Afghanistan’s bowling resurgence during the tournament. The iconic Caribbean cricketer happily accepted the memento, posing for a picture with the jersey before sharing a warm embrace and well wishes with Rabada for the final.
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Dwayne Bravo’s influence on Afghanistan’s bowling attack cannot be overstated. This tournament marked a historic run for the Asian nation, with their first-ever ICC semi-final appearance. Their bowling unit, spearheaded by the wily Rashid Khan, was their primary weapon. In the Super 8s alone, they defended a modest total of 148 against Australia and restricted Bangladesh to 105, showcasing their newfound prowess.
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However, their magic touch deserted them in the crucial semi-final against South Africa. Afghanistan opted to bat first in the knockout clash but suffered a batting collapse. Azmatullah Omarzai was the lone bright spark, managing to reach double digits. South Africa’s bowling attack, led by Marco Jansen’s three wickets, proved too strong.
Tabraiz Shamsi also showcased his capabilities on the sluggish pitch, claiming three scalps himself. Rabada and Anrich Nortje chipped in with two wickets each, dismantling the Afghan batting line-up. South Africa’s chase proved to be a cakewalk. Despite losing Quinton de Kock early to Fazalhaq Farooqi, Reeza Hendricks and Aiden Markram cruised to victory, needing just 8.5 overs to chase down the meagre target.
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The Proteas will now await the winner of the other semi-final between India and England, eager to lift the coveted T20 World Cup trophy. While Afghanistan’s dream run ended, they can hold their heads high for their incredible journey. Bravo’s contribution, alongside the team’s fighting spirit, has left a lasting impression on the tournament. Rabada’s gesture of respect further exemplifies the camaraderie that exists within the cricketing fraternity. The stage is now set for a thrilling final, with South Africa ready to face the winner of the upcoming India-England clash.
