The unbeaten Junior Proteas advanced to the last four of the competition before their scheduled last Super Sixes game against the USA, due to other results going in their favour.

The match against the USA, scheduled for Tuesday, was abandoned without a single ball being bowled due to rain. The Proteas secured a point from the draw, taking them to seven points, which gave them an unassailable lead at the top of Group 2. England finished second on six points.

Simone Lourens. Photo: X

The Junior Proteas’ commanding wins over New Zealand, Samoa, Nigeria, and Ireland also contributed to their finishing with a net run rate of 3.215. Even if they had lost against the USA, they would still have finished ahead of England, who have a net run rate of 2.877.

At this stage, it is still unclear who South Africa will face in the semi-finals, but it will not be an easy game as it will be either India or Australia, with the team from Down Under being their most likely opponents.

The seamer Monalisa Legodi, who took 4/4 in their Super Sixes match against Ireland, said reaching the semi-finals for the first time is a big deal for the team.

???? South African Women's U19 Qualify for the Semi-finals of the #U19WorldCup.

The dream continues ?????? for SA U19W as these young stars look to create history ??.#AlwaysRising #U19WorldCup #WozaNawe #BePartOfIt pic.twitter.com/ZGfeB9pvFL

— Proteas Women (@ProteasWomenCSA) January 27, 2025

“Reaching the semi-finals of the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup is an incredible achievement!” said Legodi.

“It feels amazing to be competing with the best teams in the world, and it’s a testament to the hard work we’ve put in. While we’re thrilled to have made it this far, we know the job isn’t done yet. Our focus remains on giving our best in every match ahead.

“We’ve been taking it one game at a time, analysing our performances and learning from every match. There’s a real sense of unity in the squad, and we’ve stayed positive while working hard to remain composed under pressure.

Nthabiseng Nini. Photo: X

“Mentally, I focus on staying calm and clear about my role in the team, while physically ensuring I’m prepared through proper warm-ups and mental readiness. In key moments, it’s all about trusting my training and staying present in the game.”

During the inaugural U19 Women’s T20 World Cup, played in South Africa in 2023, the Junior Proteas failed to reach the semi-finals by having a lower net run rate than the other teams.

The semi-finals will be played in the Malaysian capital city, Kuala Lumpur, on Friday.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg