South Africa showed they are serious contenders for the T20 World Cup with a commanding 76-run win over defending champions India in the Super 8s opener.
In a repeat of the 2024 final, South Africa recovered from 20-3 after four overs thanks to David Miller’s 65 off 35 balls and Dewald Brevis’ 45 off 29 balls, setting a total of 188.
India, unbeaten in the group stage, struggled in their chase. By the 10th over, they had slipped to 51-5 and were eventually bowled out for 111, unable to recover.
South Africa’s innings had early trouble as captain Aiden Markram, Quinton de Kock, and Ryan Rickelton fell for single digits in the powerplay. Miller and Brevis rebuilt the innings, with Miller reaching a half-century in 26 balls. Tristan Stubbs’ unbeaten 44 late in the innings pushed South Africa to 187-7.
Markram led the Proteas’ bowling attack, removing Ishan Kishan early. Marco Jansen also took key wickets, while Keshav Maharaj claimed three in the 15th over to finish with 4-22, wrapping up the tail.
South Africa will stay in Ahmedabad to face former champions West Indies, while India must beat Zimbabwe in Chennai to stay in the competition.
Captain Aiden Markram praised his team: “The partnership between Miller and Brevis steadied the ship. Our middle-order batting made the difference. We’ll enjoy the win but focus on the next match.”
India captain Suryakumar Yadav admitted the early wickets hurt: “We lost too many wickets in the powerplay. We’ll aim to play better against Zimbabwe.”
Commentator Prakash Wakankar noted South Africa’s focus: “From the toss, Markram was serious and determined. They executed their plan with ruthlessness and deserved the win.”
