ICC World Twenty20 Teams
Though they failed to make the final in the event in 2009, South Africa showed they have the potential to be a strong contender in 2010 and if their skipper Graeme Smith can hit a rich vein of form at the top of the order and Dale Steyn is at his destructive best with the ball they will be difficult to stop. Having only once won an ICC event, over a decade ago, the time has surely come for Graeme Smith's side to pick up the honours on a global stage.
South Africa looked all set to stake a claim for the ICC World T20 trophy in England last year. They brushed aside every opposition, beating England, the West Indies and India in the Super Eight stage to reach the semi-finals. But, they lost to eventual champions Pakistan in the semis to once again miss on the glory.
In the 2007 edition as well, South Africa had thrilled all with their display. They helped ensure the tournament got off to a memorable start against the West Indies, with both sides raining hell with the bat. With eyes firmly set on a semi-final berth, South Africa looked forward to continuing their winning run against India but their first defeat of the tournament was also enough to knock them out of the event.
With a talented batting line-up that includes the likes of Smith, AB de Villiers and Hashim Amla, and an impressive pace attack led by Dale Steyn, the side is all the more equipped to compete in the Twenty20 format of the game. Arguably the leading fielding side in the competition, there will be no surprise if they reach the final.
