In a high-stakes Super 8 clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium, South Africa delivered a masterclass in batting to secure a resounding 9-wicket win over West Indies, propelling themselves closer to the semi-finals of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Chasing a target of 177, the Proteas reached 177/1 in just 16.1 overs, showcasing explosive strokeplay and clinical efficiency that left the Caribbean side reeling.
Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, South Africa captain Aiden Markram’s decision paid dividends as his bowlers restricted West Indies to 176/8 in their 20 overs. The West Indies innings started promisingly but unraveled dramatically, slumping to 83/7 at one stage due to tight bowling and sharp fielding from the Proteas. However, a gritty 89-run partnership for the eighth wicket between Romario Shepherd (52 not out off 37 balls) and Jason Holder (49 off 31 balls) provided a late resurgence, helping the team post a competitive total on a batting-friendly pitch.
South Africa’s response was nothing short of ruthless. Openers Quinton de Kock and Aiden Markram set the tone with a blistering 95-run stand in the first eight overs. De Kock smashed 47 off 24 balls, including powerful boundaries that put the West Indies bowlers under immediate pressure. Markram, leading from the front, anchored the chase with an unbeaten 82 off 46 balls – a knock laced with elegant drives and aggressive pulls that accelerated South Africa towards victory. Ryan Rickelton complemented the skipper with an unbeaten 45 off 28 balls, ensuring the chase was completed with 23 balls to spare.
The win boosts South Africa’s net run rate to +1.425 and gives them 5 points in Group 1, virtually assuring their semi-final berth ahead of their final Super 8 match against Zimbabwe. For West Indies, the defeat leaves their campaign hanging by a thread; they must now beat India in their remaining fixture and hope for favorable results elsewhere to advance.
This performance underlines South Africa’s unbeaten run in the tournament, highlighting their balanced squad capable of adapting to various conditions. As the T20 World Cup intensifies, the Proteas emerge as strong contenders for the title, while West Indies will need to regroup quickly to salvage their hopes.
