"Get past that semi-final right, South Africa is going to win the final" - Brad Hogg backs Proteas to lift T20 World Cup 2024 trophy

Former Australian spinner Brad Hogg has backed South Africa to clinch this year's T20 World Cup if they manage to beat Afghanistan in the semi-final. Hogg believes the Proteas have their bases covered to go all the way.

South Africa are one of the teams, along with India, to stay undefeated in the tournament. However, the Proteas have the habit of losing knockout matches and they will be up against a dangerous Afghanistan side.

Speaking on Star Sports' Press Room Show, Hogg claimed:

"I think it is going to be South Africa and we have got a really strong squad, good spin with Shamsi and Maharaj. I don't plan on the big nations now and I think they'll have to go out there and play it out again instead and just have that confidence to go with the final side. For me, if I get past that semi-final right, South Africa is going to win the final this year."

South Africa have won all of their close games this year to book a spot in the semi-finals. They overcame the likes of Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, England and the West Indies when all of those fixtures could have gone either way.

"I really like Markram as the captain" - Brad Hogg

Aiden Markram. (Image Credits: Getty)

The 53-year-old also praised Aiden Markram's ability to remain calm and composed as captain instead of panicking in crunch situations. He added:

"I just think I've got the team balanced and I've got the aggression as well. I've got that kindness. I really like Markram as the captain. He is correct and very composed. And I also think we are going to win as a very well-composed team, not panicking and just setting the right conditions."

Afghanistan have managed to beat two big teams in the competition in Australia and New Zealand, followed by Bangladesh to seal a spot in the top 4. The second semi-final will be contested between India and England.