ICC World T20: Five factors that swung the semi-final India's way

India continued their unbeaten run at the World T20, by comprehensively beating South Africa in the semi-final with 6 wickets in hand and an over to spare. This article focuses on the key moments which shifted the momentum and swung the game India's way.

#1 The prized scalp of Du Plessis

Faf Du Plessis, who scored 58 runs of 41 balls, looked to be in really good touch. India's wily off-spinner, R.Ashwin, got him out just as he began upping the ante. This restricted the South African's from scoring freely in the middle overs. This wicket ensured that the Proteas, who looked set to score a total of around 200, ended up to 30-35 short of that.

#2 Positive start from Rohit and Rahane

The Indian's were set a target of 173 to chase down. The extra pressure of a semi-final also added to the difficulty of chasing an already big total. The Indians needed a good foundation to keep the total within reach. This was exactly what the openers Rohit Sharma and Ajinkya Rahane provided. They cut loose at the very beginning, ensuring that there were no nerves in the dressing room. The opening stand of 39 runs from 3.5 overs provided the Indians the perfect platform to build on from.

#3 Virat Kohli picking up the pace

Virat Kohli walked out today to do what he does best - chasing. He paced his innings perfectly. Initially, he was very cautious, just picking of the ones and twos. In the 16th over, he smashed Imran Tahir for a six to complete his half-century. After that, chaos ensued. He picked up the pace just at the right time. He managed to pick up a few boundaries in each over and ensured that India crossed the finishing line with ease and grace. He scored 72 runs from 44 balls, proving yet again that he is a big match player.

#4 The one big over from Raina

Dhoni surprised everyone by sending Suresh Raina ahead of himself at number 6. The game was evenly poised at the time. India needed 40 runs in 4 overs. However, the 17th over proved to be the game-changer. Du Plessis threw the ball to Parnell. In a combination of bad bowling, batting prowess and luck, Raina managed to score a six and two fours. This completely changed the context of the game. India now needed only 23 runs from the last 3 overs, which turned out to be a walk in the park.

#5 The jitters in the South African fielding

The South African fielding unit is touted to be one of the best in the world. They maintain the highest standards of fielding in the world. But, even this fielding unit was bought to it's knees today. The pressure got to the fielders. Hashim Amla ended up misfielding the ball, which happens once in a blue moon. This gave away a few crucial runs which in the end, cost them the game.