Data story: Data suggests that hashtag#SouthAfrica will win Semi final of hashtag#cricketworldcup2023 if they bat first

Data story: Data suggests that hashtag#SouthAfrica will win Semi final of hashtag#cricketworldcup2023 if they bat first

In 1999, I was watching the semi-final of South Africa (SA) vs Australia. SA was poised to win, but an unfortunate run-out in the last over (iconic run-out image below) turned the tide. The match ended up in a tie, but Australia qualified based on net run rate.

History has been unkind to SA when it comes to World Cup semi-finals. Think 1992, 1999, 2007, 2015. It was only in 2007 that they were emphatically beaten at the hands of their 2023 semi-final opponents, Australia. Entering every global tournament, SA has always looked like a side that could go the full distance – but they lose steam every time.

Now, in 2023 WC, while batting first, they have put up a mammoth total against opponents in the qualifying matches upto semi final. They lost to India while batting second (I will skip the loss to the Netherlands).

Given their history of losing during high-pressure situations and the so-called "jinx," data suggests that SA should bat first. They can put up a 300+ total batting first (Eden Gardens pitch) to avoid chase pressure.

And then reverse pressurize Australia with one of the formidable pace attacks in the World Cup 2023, with Kagiso Rabada spearheading their bowling attack.