South Africa crushes West Indies, nears T20 WC semis (photos)
This win marks South Africa’s second consecutive Super 8 victory, strengthening their position as strong contenders for a semifinal berth in the tournament.
KATHMANDU: In the Super 8 stage of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, South Africa secured back-to-back wins with a commanding nine-wicket victory over West Indies on Thursday in Ahmedabad, inching closer to a semifinal spot.
Chasing a target of 177 set by West Indies, South Africa reached the total in just 16.1 overs, losing only one wicket.
Captain and opener Aiden Markram remained unbeaten on 82 off 46 balls, hitting 7 fours and 4 sixes, while Rilee Rossouw contributed a quick 45* off 28 balls, with 4 fours and 2 sixes.
Earlier, opener Quinton de Kock added 47 runs from 24 balls, striking 4 fours and 4 sixes before being dismissed.
After winning the toss and electing to field, South Africa immediately put the West Indies under pressure. The Caribbean side lost four key wickets by the fourth over and was reduced to 83/7 in 10.2 overs.
A resilient partnership between Jason Holder (49 off 31 balls, 4 fours, 3 sixes) and Romario Shepherd (52*, 37 balls, 3 fours, 4 sixes) added 89 runs for the eighth wicket, enabling West Indies to post a total of 176/8.
In bowling, Lungi Ngidi led the attack with 3 wickets, while Kagiso Rabada and Corbin Bosch claimed 2 wickets each. Ngidi and Rabada made early breakthroughs, each taking 2 wickets within their first four overs.
This win marks South Africa’s second consecutive Super 8 victory, strengthening their position as strong contenders for a semifinal berth in the tournament.
