We have our semi-finalists as the last episodes of the drama series that is the Super8 stage concluded with a double feature overnight as South Africa put away Zimbabwe and India got home in their game against the West Indies.
The India x West Indies was a virtual quarter-final decided by one man as Sanju Samson played the innings of a lifetime to anchor India in chasing down 199 in the final over. In a game that hung in the balance for so long a few key moments here and there proved the difference as Baldy and Raj broke down terrific batting performances by both sides. In an interesting aside Baldy and Raj break down the balance of the Indian side going forward as Axar went unused with the bat and only five bowlers were used. Is there another gear that India can go to with a tweak to their lineup? For the West Indies this concludes a terrific tournament for them - they've come oh so close to a semi-final berth but it is India that is through to the semis against England.
We also recap the South Africa x Zimbabwe encounter. South Africa made several changes all of which seemed to pay off against Zimbabwe as Maphaka and Nortje made telling inroads with the ball early. Sikanda Raza did everything to keep Zimbabwe hopes alive but South Africa proved too strong with too many options in the end.
Looking ahead to the semi-finals. What needs to go right for New Zealand to get ahead of South Africa? Baldy seems to think that Phillips will have something to say. The showdown at the top of the order between Seifert and Allen versus the length bowling of Ngidi and Rabada looms as a key moment. For India and England, which superstars from either side will step up in what promises to be an enticing affair? Will we see the best of Buttler and Abishek who have been quiet all tournament?
We'll be back in your feed again tomorrow with the next instalment of our T20 World Cup coverage. Until then please take the time to give us a like, follow, share or subscribe on all our channels (@toporderpod on Twitter & Facebook, and @thetoporderpodcast on Instagram & YouTube) and a (5-Star!) review at your favourite podcast provider, or tell a friend to download. It really helps others find the show and is the best thing you can do to support us. You can also find all our written content, including our Hall of Fame series, at our website.
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