West Indies Heartbroken, South Africa in Semifinal

Kieron Pollard’s wicket off the last ball before rain halted the play, made all the difference, as South Africa stormed into the semifinals of the ICC Champions Trophy, leaving the West Indies heartbroken. Pollard’s dismissal helped South Africa end the match in a tie under the D/L method. Both teams finishes at 3 points each in the group, but South Africa had better net run rate.

Heavy rains and wet outfield delayed the match and later it was curtailed to 31-overs a side. Earlier, West Indies won the toss and elected to field first. South Africa posted 230/6 in 31 overs. Ingram (73), Amla (23), Villiers (37), Plessis (35) and Miller (38) were the top scorers. Dwayne Bravo took two wickets.

Chasing a victory target of 231, West Indies were 190/6 in 26.1 overs when rain stopped play. The par score became 190 for the West Indies after Poolard’s dismissal. Thus, the match ended in a TIE under D/L method.

For West Indies, Gayle (36), Devon Smith (30), Samuels (48) and Pollard (28) were the top scorers. Dale Steyn took two wickets. Colin Ingram was declared ‘Man of the Match’. India have already qualified for the semifinals from this group. India will take on Pakistan in a dead rubber today.