Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium hosted a high-stakes T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 encounter between South Africa and West Indies. Aiden Markram’s decision to bowl first after winning the toss backfired initially as West Indies’ lower order staged a remarkable recovery to reach 176 for 8 in 20 overs.
Disaster struck early for the visitors. Shai Hope’s aggressive 16 off 6 ended abruptly, followed by Hetmyer’s duck-like 2 to Rabada. King departed after a brisk 21 off 11, Powell scratched 9, Chase 2, and Rutherford 12, with the score plummeting to a precarious 83/7.
Jason Holder and Romario Shepherd then took charge. Their defiant 89-run partnership for the eighth wicket breathed life into the innings. Holder’s 49 from 31 deliveries showcased his power, cut short by a run-out. Shepherd, unbeaten on 52 from 37 balls with 3 boundaries and 4 maximums, ensured respectability.
Lungi Ngidi led South Africa’s attack with a haul of 3/30, while Kagiso Rabada (2/22) and Corbin Bosch (2/31) kept things tight. The chase now rests on South Africa’s batting firepower including de Kock, Miller, and Brevis.
This match underscores West Indies’ resilience, setting up an intriguing second innings under floodlights. Full team lineups confirm a balanced South African unit and a fighting West Indies side led by Hope.