But on Wednesday, Somerset’s will to win was stronger and more realistic than the South Africans’ pre-tournament tag as evidenced in their 12-run win that earned the Englishmen a place in the semifinals against Mumbai Indians in Chennai.
An all-round effort powered Somerset to a competitive 146 for four in 20 overs with Craig Kieswetter leading the way with an unbeaten fifty (56 n.o., 52b, 4x4, 3x6).
The Somerset bowlers then produced a clinical display, and along with it the now-familiar South African tendency of choking in the big moment helped the English side restrict Warriors to 134 for eight.
(Published 06 October 2011, 17:04 IST)