In a high-stakes Super 8 Group 1 encounter at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, South Africa captain Aiden Markram won the toss and elected to bowl first against West Indies on Tuesday. This T20 World Cup 2026 match could define both teams’ paths to the semifinals.
Markram, exuding confidence, explained his decision post-toss: ‘The wicket looks fantastic. We’ve played some games here and plan to leverage that experience fully. Kagiso Rabada’s IPL inputs from this venue have been invaluable. No changes in our lineup today.’
West Indies skipper Shai Hope, handed the tough task of batting first, remained upbeat. ‘We need big runs on the board again. We’d have bowled too, but we’ll stick to our best cricket. South Africa are in top form, but our boys are ready for this crucial game.’ He revealed one switch: Roston Chase replaces Akeal Hosein, calling it a tactical move rather than a drop for the in-form spinner.
Both sides enter with momentum. South Africa demolished India by 76 runs in their Super 8 opener, while West Indies crushed Zimbabwe by 107 runs. A convincing win here would propel either team closer to semifinal glory.
South Africa’s playing XI: Aiden Markram (c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi.
West Indies’ lineup: Brandon King, Shai Hope (wk), Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Roston Chase, Romario Shepherd, Jason Holder, Matthew Forde, Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph.
As the action unfolds under the lights, fans brace for explosive T20 cricket with playoff implications hanging in the balance. Stay tuned for live updates.