In a stunning display of dominance at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, South Africa crushed West Indies by 9 wickets in a Super-8 clash of the T20 World Cup on Thursday. This victory not only propelled the Proteas forward but also etched their name in history books with the second-largest win margin while chasing over 150 runs.
West Indies, electing to bat first after losing the toss, stumbled early, slumping to 83 for 7. A gritty rescue act from Jason Holder and Romario Shepherd revived their innings. Holder smashed 49 off 31 balls, laced with 4 fours and 3 sixes, while Shepherd remained unbeaten on 52 from 37 deliveries, featuring 3 fours and 4 sixes. Their 89-run stand for the 8th wicket pushed the score to 176 for 8.
South Africa’s bowlers were relentless upfront. Lungi Ngidi starred with 3 wickets, supported by Kagiso Rabada and Corbin Bosch, who each claimed 2 scalps. The stage was set for a thrilling chase.
Enter the Proteas’ openers. Captain Aiden Markram and Quinton de Kock tore apart the West Indies attack, racing to 95 runs in just 8 overs. De Kock fell for a brisk 47 off 24 balls (4 fours, 4 sixes), but Markram, unbeaten on a masterful 82 from 46 balls (7 fours, 4 sixes), combined with Ryan Rickelton (45* off 28, 4 fours, 2 sixes) for an unbroken 82-run stand. South Africa sealed the chase in 16.1 overs, losing just one wicket.
This triumph marks the second-biggest victory chasing 150+ in T20 World Cup history. Only three teams have won by 10 wickets in such scenarios: Pakistan over India in 2021 Dubai, England in 2022 Adelaide, and New Zealand against UAE in 2026 Chennai. South Africa’s clinical performance underscores their credentials as serious contenders.