NAGPUR: West Indies beat South Africa by three wickets in a low-scoring thriller in their World Twenty20 Super 10 match on Friday to join New Zealand in the semi-finals.

The West Indian attack responded brilliantly to captain Darren Sammy's decision to bowl first on a slow pitch offering help as they restricted South Africa to 122 for eight.

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• Struggling South Africa set West Indies 123 to win

The 2012 champions looked comfortable for most of their run chase but leg-spinner Imran Tahir struck twice in consecutive deliveries in his last over to haul his side back into the game.

Chris Gayle, Andre Russell and Dwayne Bravo picked up two wickets apiece for West Indies who retained the same side that beat Sri Lanka in their last match in Bangalore.

South Africa, who have never lifted the trophy but were one of the pre-tournament favourites, have two points from three Group One games and look like going out.

Second-placed England have four points and can claim a spot in the last four with a win on Saturday over Sri Lanka who are also on two points. Afghanistan are bottom with no points.