In a thrilling Group D encounter of the T20 World Cup 2026 at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, South Africa posted a formidable 187 for 6 after being put in to bat by Afghanistan. The match, witnessed by a packed crowd, showcased explosive batting from Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton, who steadied the innings with a match-defining partnership.
Afghanistan’s captain won the toss and opted to field first, a decision that initially paid off as South Africa’s openers faltered. Captain Aiden Markram managed just 5 runs off 8 balls before falling to Fazalhaq Farooqi, leaving the Proteas at 12 for 1. But de Kock and Rickelton turned the tide with a sensational 114-run stand for the second wicket off just 61 deliveries.
The duo’s aggression put the Afghan bowlers under immense pressure. De Kock, in particular, unleashed three sixes and five fours in his 41-ball 59, while Rickelton smashed four sixes and five boundaries in a brisk 28-ball 61. Their partnership was finally broken by Rashid Khan in the 13th over, who struck twice in quick succession – first dismissing de Kock on the fourth ball and then Rickelton on the sixth.
The middle order wobbled briefly with Dewald Brevis scoring a quick 23 off 19 balls (1×6, 1×4) before being dismissed, and Tristan Stubbs managing only 1. However, David Miller (20 off 15) and Marco Jansen (16 off 7) provided the finishing touches with some lusty blows, propelling South Africa to a challenging total.
Afghanistan’s bowlers fought back valiantly. Rashid Khan was the standout with 2 for 28 in his four overs, while Fazalhaq Farooqi claimed 1 for 32. All-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai impressed most, finishing with impressive figures of 3 for 41 from his four overs.
With 188 to win, Afghanistan now face a steep chase against a fired-up South African bowling attack. The game promises high drama as both teams vie for crucial points in the group stage.