'Proteas, you are nothing but winners'

New Zealand and South Africa played their hearts out in the first semi-final of the ICC World Cup at the Eden Park in Auckland on Tuesday, but it was the Black Caps who emerged triumphant by four wickets.

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While the Proteas were left to reflect on the what-ifs again, one got to feel for AB de Villiers.

It was hard for the South African players to control their emotions as they certainly gave their all in the thrilling tie.

Words of comfort came in quickly for the South Africans, who will hang on with the ‘chokers’ tag.

Cricket South Africa tweeted, “6 and New Zealand win by 4 wickets. It's all over for the Proteas. Hard luck boys. We always stand behind the #ProteaFire.”

South Africa's Minister of Sports was also supportive. “To Proteas, you are nothing but Winners in my eyes, and I am positive the whole nation agrees!,” he posted on Twitter.

New Zealand scripted history by entering their maiden World Cup final.

Batsman Ross Taylor, tweeted, “ Woohoo. Who's coming to Melbourne????”

Stephen Fleming, the Back Caps' former captain, was ecstatic.

“What an unbelievable game. So proud of the Back Caps and what they have achieved. Also feel the raw pain of South Africa on an amazing day,” read his post on the social networking site.