Are the Proteas T20 World Cup champions in waiting?
South Africa's Keshav Maharaj (C) celebrates with captain Aiden Markram (R) after taking the wicket of India's Rinku Singh during the 2026 ICC Men's T20 Cricket World Cup Super Eights match at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on February 22, 2026. Picture: Shammi MEHRA / AFP
Image: Shammi MEHRA / AFP
South Africa reignited their T20 World Cup aspirations with a commanding victory over defending champions India in Ahmedabad on Sunday.
This dominant performance has prompted fans and analysts alike to consider whether this could finally be the year the Proteas secure their first limited overs cricket World Cup title.
In a match where strategy and execution were key, South Africa’s captain, Aiden Markram, made a decisive decision to bat first after winning the toss.
This tactic forced India to chase for the first time in the tournament, a move that paid off handsomely.
South Africa’s Dominant Performance Against India Boosts T20 World Cup Hopes
Despite early setbacks with the dismissals of Quinton de Kock, Markram, and Ryan Rickelton, the Proteas found stability through a crucial fourth-wicket partnership of 97 between David Miller (63) and Dewald Brevis (45). Their explosive batting shifted the momentum in South Africa’s favour, setting a formidable target.
Although Brevis departed earlier than ideal, Tristan Stubbs (44) provided a late surge with his aggressive batting, propelling South Africa to a challenging score of nearly 190 runs. This total proved to be significant on the pitch, putting immense pressure on the Indian batting lineup.
South Africa’s bowling attack was equally, if not more, impressive. Markram’s (1/5) unexpected opening of the attack, which yielded a wicket up front, combined with Lungi Ngidi’s (0/15) economical spell, kept India at bay. Keshav Maharaj (3/24) and Marco Jansen (4/22) contributed with key wickets, while Corbin Bosch (2/12) ensured the pressure remained relentless.
With upcoming matches against the West Indies (Thursday) and Zimbabwe (Sunday) in the Super Eights, South Africa’s confidence is at an all-time high.
This victory not only boosts their standings but also solidifies their status as serious contenders in the tournament.
As the Proteas continue their journey, the cricketing world watches with anticipation, wondering if this might finally be the year South Africa claims the elusive T20 World Cup title.
* The views expressed are not necessarily the views of IOL or Independent Media.
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