The Proteas will be wrapping up their ICC Cricket World Cup round-robin games on Friday when they face Afghanistan in Ahmedabad.

The match is a mere formality for South Africa as they have already qualified for the semi-finals where they will be up against the old foe, Australia, next week.

Afghanistan still has a chance of making it to the knockout rounds for the first time, but that will require a win against South Africa, while they will need some results to go their way.

While a win against South Africa is not impossible, it will be incredibly difficult to reach the semi-finals. Even if they managed to beat South Africa their net run rate could come back to haunt them.

For the Proteas, today’s game is an opportunity to study the conditions, as the final will also be played at the same venue.

David Miller - Cricinfo

The big-hitting Proteas batter, David Miller, said while they are in the semi’s already, today’s match is still a very important one as there are boxes that need to be ticked.

“I don't think any international game is kind of a weird game,” said Miller.

“I think for us, it's just continuing what we've really done in this World Cup and just nailing down on areas that we want to improve on from the previous game and yeah, I think it's a great opportunity to showcase what we can do and get some momentum into that semi.”

Play in Ahmedabad is scheduled to start at 10:30.

Trent Boult - Cricinfo

Meanwhile, New Zealand have one foot in the semi-finals after a convincing five-wicket win against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru on Thursday.

Sri Lanka had a bat first and were bowled out for 171-runs in 46.4 overs, with Kusal Perera scoring 51.

Trent Boult was the chief destroyer for the Black Caps with 3/37 in 10 overs.

In reply, the South African-born Devon Conway scored 45 and Rachin Ravindra scored 42 as the Kiwis chased down the target in just 23.2 overs.

New Zealand are almost guaranteed of their place, but it is a waiting game as the result between Pakistan and England can affect their progression.

Boult said the possibility of a semi-final is exciting and they look forward to the possibility of a tough challenge.

“I’ve played India a lot of times – they’re quality players, know these conditions very well,” said the man of the match against Sri Lanka.

“It’s hard to comment on what the conditions will be at Wankhede, but you know, history suggests it's a good wicket and, yeah, nice to have come up against them in Dharamshala.

“Totally different ground and different facilities, but, yeah, we'll turn our focus to that challenge. Very, very good players, but pressure does things to the best of players at any time. So just look forward to taking that on.”

On Saturday at 7:00, Australia will face Bangladesh in Pune, while at 10:30 Pakistan will be up against England at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport