"Could go either way" - Ricky Ponting looks forward to USA vs South Africa T20 World Cup 2024 match

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting believes the Super 8 clash on Wednesday (June 19) between South Africa and the USA could go either way. The Tasmanian feels the USA have got the reward for all the hard work they've put in and do have a chance of toppling the Proteas.

The USA, captained by Monank Patel, has arguably been the surprise package of the tournament. They made it to the Super 8 on the back of a convincing win over Canada, which was followed by a stunning win over former champions Pakistan in the Super Over in Dallas.

Speaking on the latest episode of the ICC Review, Ponting stated that he expects the second half of the tournament to be competitive. Discussing the USA's chances, he said:

"It’s been great reward for a lot of the hard work they've put in. If they turn up and they play their best, and South Africa are 5 per cent off their game, it could go either way. This next phase is going to be even more exciting than what we've seen so far and I can't wait."

The co-hosts also ran Team India close while defending 110 as pace spearhead Saurabh Netravalkar dismissed Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma cheaply. Nevertheless, Suryakumar Yadav's half-century steered them home.

"I still think they're a really dangerous team" - Ricky Ponting on South Africa

The South Africa national cricket team (Credits: Getty)

Ponting further claimed that South Africa will be the firm favorites to win the trophy if their batting comes to the fore. On this, he said:

"I had them pencilled in as one of the favorites going into the tournament. I still think they're a really dangerous team. If their batting clicks, they will be a dangerous team going forward."

South Africa are yet to reach the T20 World Cup final. Aiden Markram and co. are one of the four unbeaten sides in the showpiece event along with Australia, West Indies and India.