T20 World Cup: Aiden Markram Says 'Nothing to be Scared of' as South Africa Reach Maiden Final

After guiding South Africa to their maiden T20 World Cup final, skipper Aiden Markram urged his players to stay calm and not to be “scared” of the title clash.

South Africa demolished Afghanistan by nine wickets in the first semifinal and now await the winners of the second last-four clash between India and England.

T20 World Cup 2024 Semi-final: South Africa vs Afghanistan – HIGHLIGHTS

“It is one more step for us, it (the final) is an opportunity we have never had, nothing to be scared of,” said Markram in the post-match presentation ceremony.

“This win means a lot. We have some world-class players in the side but like I said, it takes a whole squad to be able to deliver such a performance.”

Markram lauded his bowlers for bowling out Afghanistan for a lowly 56.

“We were brilliant with the ball, got it in the right areas and kept it really simple. The bowlers have been incredible for us.”

Markram said the batting was a bit challenging on the pitch that offered pronounced seam movement.

“It was challenging with the bat, as no batter is going to lie and tell you it was easy out there. We had a bit of luck and then got a bit of a partnership.”

The 29-year-old said the whole team was relieved after closing out the match easily.

“We have had a few close games and a few people back home would have woken up early with more grey hairs. Glad today was a bit more comforting,” he added.

Markram has led South Africa to the Under-19 men’s title in 2014 in Dubai and has won all games as captain in World Cup matches.

Player of the match Marco Jansen, who picked up three early wickets, said they were focusing on keeping the ball in the right areas.

“Awesome feeling. The guys played really well, we executed perfectly. We just wanted to stick to our plan, bowl good lengths and see how the wicket reacts.

“The wicket was getting a bit open, and it was about keeping it simple.”

(With inputs from Agencies)

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