In a high-octane start to their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign, South Africa crushed Canada by 57 runs at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Aiden Markram’s blistering half-century lit up the evening, setting the tone for a dominant Proteas performance.
Opting to field first after losing the toss, Canada watched helplessly as South Africa’s openers Quinton de Kock and captain Aiden Markram tore into their bowling. The duo forged a fiery 70-run stand in just 6.5 overs before de Kock fell for 25 off 22 balls.
Markram, undeterred, partnered with Ryan Rickelton to add 56 runs for the second wicket. The skipper smashed 59 off 10 fours and a six, his aggressive strokeplay pushing South Africa to a formidable 213 for 4 in 20 overs. Rickelton contributed 33 off 21, while Tristan Stubbs (34*) and David Miller (39*) unleashed a late onslaught, plundering 75 runs off 37 balls to breach the 200-mark.
Canada’s bowlers struggled, with Ans Patel claiming 3 wickets, but it wasn’t enough to stem the tide. Chasing 214, Canada crumbled from the outset, losing captain Dilpreet Bajwa for a golden duck on the first ball.
Navneet Dhaliwal fought valiantly with 64 off 49 balls, including seven fours and a six, stitching a 69-run stand with Harsh Thakor (33). But the middle order collapsed, leaving Canada bowled out for 156 in 20 overs, eight wickets down.
Lungi Ngidi starred with the ball, snaring 4 wickets, supported by Marco Jansen’s brace. Kagiso Rabada and Corbin Bosch chipped in with one each. South Africa’s comprehensive victory signals their intent in the tournament, with Markram’s fireworks stealing the show.