Match Report
Cricket fans at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium witnessed one of the most dramatic encounters in T20 history as South Africa edged Afghanistan after a second Super Over in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026.
After Afghanistan opted to bowl, South Africa posted a competitive 187/6 in 20 overs, powered by explosive knocks from Ryan Rickelton and Quinton de Kock. Rickelton’s 61 off 28 balls shifted momentum in the middle overs, while de Kock’s composed 59 anchored the innings. Afghanistan’s bowlers, particularly Azmatullah Omarzai (3/41) and Rashid Khan (2/28), kept things tight enough to give their batters a realistic chase.
Afghanistan responded fearlessly. Rahmanullah Gurbaz produced a breathtaking 84 off 42 deliveries at a strike rate of 200, dismantling the South African attack. Despite losing partners at regular intervals, Afghanistan matched South Africa’s total of 187, getting bowled out in 19.4 overs and forcing a Super Over.
The first Super Over could not separate the two sides — both teams matching each other’s intensity and nerve. It required a rare second Super Over to decide the contest. South Africa held their composure under immense pressure, executing better with both bat and ball to seal a memorable victory.
This win gives South Africa a crucial boost in Group D standings, while Afghanistan, despite the loss, proved once again they belong among cricket’s elite.
📊 Match Statistics
South Africa – 187/6 (20 Overs)
Top Batters
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Ryan Rickelton: 61 (28) – 5 fours, 4 sixes
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Quinton de Kock: 59 (41) – 5 fours, 3 sixes
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Dewald Brevis: 23 (19)
Key Bowling (Afghanistan)
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Azmatullah Omarzai: 3/41 (4 overs)
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Rashid Khan: 2/28 (4 overs)
Powerplay Score: 43/1
Run Rate: 9.35
Afghanistan – 187 All Out (19.4 Overs)
Top Batters
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Rahmanullah Gurbaz: 84 (42) – 4 fours, 7 sixes
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Azmatullah Omarzai: 22 (17)
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Rashid Khan: 20 (12)
Key Bowling (South Africa)
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Lungi Ngidi: 3/26 (4 overs)
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Keshav Maharaj: 1/27 (4 overs)
Powerplay Score: 56/3
Run Rate: 9.51
Super Over Summary
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Match tied at 187–187
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1st Super Over tied
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2nd Super Over: South Africa prevailed
🏆 Player of the Match
Rahmanullah Gurbaz – 84 (42)
Despite ending on the losing side, Gurbaz’s explosive innings forced the game into a Super Over and nearly scripted one of Afghanistan’s greatest T20 wins.
Final Result: South Africa won after 2nd Super Over (Match tied, 1st Super Over tied).
This unforgettable thriller will be remembered as one of the greatest matches in T20 World Cup history. South Africa gain vital momentum in Group D, while Afghanistan emerge with enhanced reputation and confidence as the tournament progresses.
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