T20 World Cup 2024: Why is Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium a cause for concern for South Africa?

South Africa ( Source : ICC )

South Africa are scheduled to play one of their three matches in the Super Eight stage of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024 at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium in Gros Islet, St Lucia. While the Proteas have an all-win record so far in the ninth edition of the marquee event, they won’t be able to pleasantly recall their history at the venue named after former two-time T20 World Cup-winning West Indies captain – Daren Sammy.

South Africa start their Super Eight campaign on Wednesday, June 19, against an upbeat USA side at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound, Antigua. They will also play their final Super Eight fixture at this ground against the West Indies on June 24. However, in the middle of these two fixtures, the Rainbow Nation will be in action at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium against England on June 21.

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Fans would be wondering why the venue in Gros Islet could be a concern for the South African team. Actually, the Rainbow Nation has a worrisome record at this venue.

They have played two matches at this venue and lost both of them. Interestingly, both matches were a part of the 2010 T20 World Cup. In their first match at the picturesque ground, South Africa suffered a 14-run defeat against India in a match where Suresh Raina became the first Indian batter to score a T20I century. South Africa went on to face Pakistan at this venue a few days later and lost by 11 runs, chasing a target of 149.

Can South Africa end Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium jinx?

South Africa would be high on confidence after registering wins against Sri Lanka, Netherlands, Bangladesh, and Nepal en route to the Super Eights. The bowlers have stood up for the Aiden Markram-led side, with Anrich Nortje scalping nine wickets in four games at 7.78. The batting lineup hasn’t lived up to its billing but the conditions where they have played their matches haven’t been ideal for run-scoring.

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South Africa would want to win their game against the USA on Wednesday and maintain their unbeaten streak in the tournament. England haven’t looked in great nick thus far and had to fight hard to progress to the Super Eights. South Africa will fancy their chances of beating England and ending their jinx at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium.