SA vs Zim Live: Raza’s Heroics Put Proteas to the Test Before Miller and Brevis Steady the Chase

Undefeated South Africa overcame a spirited early assault from Zimbabwe at the Arun Jaitley Stadium to finish the Super 8s atop Group 1, reaching 93/3 at the ten-over mark in pursuit of 154.

Zimbabwe, already eliminated from semi-final contention, found a lone hero in captain Sikandar Raza, who bludgeoned a masterful 73 off 43 deliveries. His aggression anchored a total of 153/7, despite disciplined spells from South Africa’s rotated attack, led by teenage prodigy Kwena Maphaka (2/21).

The Proteas' chase stuttered early under Raza's golden touch with the ball. The veteran off-spinner removed Quinton de Kock for a duck and castled Aiden Markram (4) within the first three overs. When Ryan Rickelton (31) fell to a stunning Ryan Burl catch just as the Powerplay concluded, South Africa appeared vulnerable at 43/3.

However, the "engine room" of David Miller and Dewald Brevis swiftly quelled the uprising. Brevis dazzled with his trademark "no-look" sixes, while Miller’s calculated power-hitting against the spinners ensured the required rate remained under control. Their unbeaten 50-run stand shifted the momentum decisively, leaving the Proteas firmly in the driver's seat as they prepare for a semi-final showdown against New Zealand.