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South Africa reach World Cup semi-finals with nine-wicket win over Sri Lanka

South Africa seal their first World Cup knockout win to reach the semi-finals following a nine-wicket triumph over Sri Lanka.

South Africa have secured their first World Cup knockout victory by beating Sri Lanka by nine wickets in the quarter-finals in Sydney.

The Proteas dominated the game from the outset when JP Duminy snatched a hat-trick and Imran Tahir claimed four wickets as Sri Lanka struggled with the bat.

Kumar Sangakkara, who is ranked the second best one-day batsman in the world, top-scored with 45 runs off 96 balls as Sri Lanka tumbled all out for 133 inside 37.2 overs.

In reply, Hashim Amla and Quinton de Kock struck a 40-run partnership before the former was taken out by Lasith Malinga when the batsman's ball soared to third man and was caught by Nuwan Kulasekara.

Despite the blow, South Africa remained composed and fully in control of their innings as De Kock reached his half-ton off 39 balls, while Faf du Plessis contributed as Sri Lanka's bowlers struggled to cope.

De Kock sealed the win with a boundary as he finished the game unbeaten on 78, while Du Plessis ended the day unscathed on 21 off 31 balls.

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JP Duminy of South Africa celebrates his 100 during day 2 of the 2nd Test match between South Africa and Australia at AXXESS St Georges on February 21, 2014
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