By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
South Africa have qualified for the World Cup 2023 semi-finals after Pakistan defeated New Zealand by 21 runs via DLS method at Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
The Proteas, with 12 points from seven games so far, join hosts India in booking a place in the last four.
Pakistan now have eight points from as many games with their last match against England in Kolkata on November 11.
Despite a win, Pakistan’s path to the World Cup semi-final remains difficult as they don’t have things in their own hands but are still dependent on the results of New Zealand and Afghanistan.
Pakistan, New Zealand and Afghanistan have eight points each but all four will be unable to match the 12 of South Africa in the last week of group games.
Australia in all likelihood will become the third team to qualify for the semi-finals and already have eight points as they have Afghanistan and Bangladesh next after today’s game against England.
South Africa already into the semi-finals, will look to maintain their perfect start against India in Kolkata on Sunday.