Cardiff: With a semifinal slot up for grabs, South Africa and the West Indies would be locked in what is a virtual quarterfinal when they take on each other in their last Group B match of the ICC Champions Trophy here on Friday.
South Africa lost their opening game to India before getting the better of Pakistan, results which are similar to what the West Indies have managed so far in the tournament.
India are already through to the semis after two wins out of two, while Pakistan are out of contention. That leaves the Proteas and the West Indies locked in a battle for the second semifinal spot.
South Africa got a shot in the arm ahead of the crucial match with pacer Dale Steyn returning to fitness. He bowled in the nets yesterday without any discomfort after being laid low by a side strain.
“Dale is progressing quite well. He came through his net session today without any discomfort,” Mohammed Moosajee, South Africa’s team manager, who is also a doctor, said on Wednesday.
“We will watch him overnight to see if he wakes up with any stiffness. If he comes through tomorrow’s practice then he should be available.”
As far as batting goes, both teams seem evenly matched with Chris Gayle and Hashim Amla remaining the keys for the Windies and Proteas, respectively. (PTI)
