South Africa’s painful run in global cricket tournaments continued on Wednesday as they suffered yet another semi-final defeat, this time at the hands of New Zealand in the Champions Trophy. The loss in Lahore marked their fifth semi-final exit from the competition, having previously fallen short in 2000, 2002, 2006, and 2013.
The defeat adds to the Proteas’ growing history of near-misses in major tournaments, including their semi-final loss in the 2023 ODI World Cup and their heartbreak in last year’s T20 World Cup final.
A Legacy of Heartbreak
1999 ODI World Cup Semi-Final – Edgbaston Disaster
Chasing 214 against Australia, South Africa was on the brink of victory, needing just one run with four balls remaining. However, a disastrous mix-up between Lance Klusener and Allan Donald led to a run-out, tying the match and sending Australia through to the final based on superior group stage results.
2015 ODI World Cup Semi-Final – Elliott’s Last-Over Heroics
In Auckland, South Africa faced New Zealand in another high-stakes semi-final. With five runs needed off the last two balls, Grant Elliott launched Dale Steyn for a match-winning six, leaving the Proteas heartbroken once again.
2023 ODI World Cup Semi-Final – Another Australian Nightmare
After an impressive campaign, South Africa crumbled under pressure in Kolkata, posting just 212 runs in difficult conditions. Despite David Miller’s fighting century, Australia edged them out by three wickets, dashing their title hopes yet again.
2024 T20 World Cup Final – Agonisingly Close
South Africa reached the final of the T20 World Cup in Barbados, looking poised to secure their first-ever global title. With just 30 runs needed from 30 balls and six wickets in hand against India, the Proteas suffered a dramatic collapse, ultimately losing by seven runs.
The ‘Chokers’ Tag Remains
Despite consistent deep runs in ICC tournaments, South Africa has yet to break their long-standing trophy drought. White-ball coach Rob Walter previously admitted that the Proteas would only shed their “chokers” tag once they lift a World Cup.
As another campaign ends in disappointment, South Africa’s wait for a major international title continues.