Kohli hails bowling attack as India crush South Africa to book place in semi-finals

India captain Virat Kohli praised his bowling attack as they demolished the South Africa batting line-up to seal a spot in the Champions Trophy semi-final.

The reigning champions were far too good for their opponents at the Oval as they won by eight wickets after easily chasing down a modest target of 192.

South Africa started slowly with the bat but were seemingly building a sensible innings, with opener Quinton de Kock hitting 53.

The likes of skipper AB de Villiers (16) and David Miller (one) were victims of poor communication as three players were run out – with India taking eight wickets for 51 runs.

In return they never looked in trouble as Shikhar Dhawan (78) and Kohli (76 not out) enjoyed themselves with some big hitting.

But it was the bowlers who were hailed by Kohli after the convincing victory.

“The pressure was built by the bowlers and that I think resulted in those breakthroughs we got in the field,” he said.

“All of the bowlers executed their plan so well in such a big game and to be able to bowl like that against a batting line-up of their ability, we can feel confident and would like to take it forward into the semis.”

Kohli said there was nothing for him to criticise as India continued in their quest to defend the trophy.

“I can’t pinpoint any negatives from the day, it was our best game yet,” he added.