The highly anticipated semi-final of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 is set to take place on Thursday, November 16, at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata, India. Two of cricket’s most formidable rivals, Australia and South Africa, will lock horns in a battle for a spot in the coveted final. This match promises to be an electrifying clash of cricketing titans, with both teams boasting star-studded lineups and a rich history of World Cup success.
South Africa vs Australia Match Details
| Date | Match | Time | Venue |
| November 16, 2023, Thursday | SA vs AUS | 2:00 PM IST / 8:30 AM GMT | Eden Gardens, Kolkata |
Match Preview Of ICC Cricket World Cup 2023: Australia and South Africa Clash in Epic Semi-Final
Both teams have lost just twice during the group stage of the tournament, with South Africa falling to India and the Netherlands and Australia losing to the Proteas as well as the tournament hosts.
Australia: A Force to be Reckoned With
Australia, the five-time World Cup champions, enter the semi-final as one of the tournament’s favorites. They have displayed unwavering dominance throughout the group stages, showcasing their exceptional batting prowess and lethal bowling attack. Led by the resolute captaincy of Pat Cummins, Australia boasts a formidable lineup that includes the likes of David Warner, Steve Smith, and Glenn Maxwell. Their bowling attack, spearheaded by Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, is equally impressive, capable of dismantling any batting order.
South Africa: Ready to Break the Shackles
South Africa, the 1999 World Cup champions, arrive at the semi-final with a renewed sense of determination. Despite their past World Cup disappointments, they have displayed remarkable resilience and fighting spirit throughout the tournament. Captain Temba Bavuma has instilled a winning mentality in the team, and their performances have reflected this newfound confidence. South Africa’s batting lineup, anchored by Quinton de Kock and Rassie van der Dussen, is capable of setting imposing targets, while their bowling attack, led by Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje, is known for its pace and aggression.
A Match of Epic Proportions
The Australia vs South Africa semi-final promises to be an epic encounter, with both teams eager to etch their names in World Cup history. The match will be a test of character, skill, and strategy, with every run, wicket, and catch playing a crucial role in determining the outcome. The Eden Gardens, known as the “Mecca of Cricket,” will provide a fitting backdrop for this cricketing spectacle, as thousands of passionate fans cheer on their respective teams.
Prediction: A Close and Contested Affair
Predicting the outcome of this highly anticipated match is a daunting task, as both teams possess the talent and experience to emerge victorious. However, Australia’s consistent performance throughout the tournament and their superior head-to-head record give them a slight edge. Nonetheless, South Africa’s recent form and their ability to rise to the occasion suggest that they are capable of springing an upset.
South Africa vs Australia Pitch Report
It’s well knowledge that the pitches at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens are batting-friendly. But as the game goes on, the surface slows down and starts to benefit spinners.
South Africa vs Australia Weather Report
On November 16, Kolkata’s weather is predicted by Accuweather to be dry with sporadic clouds. The expected range of temperatures is 22–27 degrees Celsius.
South Africa vs Australia Head-to-Head in World Cup
Historical Clash
16 years later, South Africa and Australia square off in a 50-over World Cup quarterfinal. They had confrontations in 1999 and 2007. Australia won the matches both times.
Australia and South Africa played 7 matches against each other in the ICC ODI cricket World Cup competitions so far, with Australia winning 3 matches, South Africa winning 3 matches and one match being a draw. When it comes to the highest total scored by each team in the tournament so far, Australia has posted 377 runs against Proteas, while Proteas have scored 325 runs against Australia. On the other hand, South Africa has scored 149 runs against Australia, while Australia has scored 153 runs against South Africa.
South Africa vs Australia World Cup 2023 Match Squad
South Africa squad: Temba Bavuma (c), Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Rassie van der Dussen, Lizaad Williams.
Australia squad: Pat Cummins (c), Steve Smith, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Sean Abbott, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitch Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa, Mitchell Starc.
Key Players to Watch
- Quinton de Kock (South Africa)
- Glenn Maxwell (Australia)
- Adam Zampa (Australia)
Conclusion: A Must-Watch Cricket Extravaganza
The Australia vs South Africa semi-final is undoubtedly the highlight of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, and cricket fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating this epic clash. Whether you are a die-hard supporter of Australia or South Africa, or simply a neutral observer of the game, this match promises to be an unforgettable cricketing extravaganza.