AHMEDABAD: South Africa’s captain Aiden Markram showered praise on his bowlers after a commanding nine-wicket victory over West Indies in the T20 World Cup 2026 at Narendra Modi Stadium. The thrilling win on Thursday showcased the Proteas’ dominance, chasing down a challenging 177 with ease.
Markram highlighted the bowlers’ precision. ‘We bowled in the right areas consistently,’ he said post-match. ‘Maintaining length and energy throughout kept us in control. Taking wickets regularly is key in T20s, and our powerplay effort was outstanding.’
The heat added to the challenge, but South Africa’s attack shone. Lungi Ngidi led with 3/30 in four overs, Corbin Bosch grabbed 2/31, and Kagiso Rabada impressed with 2/22. Their efforts restricted West Indies to 176/8, despite Romario Shepherd’s 52 off 37 and Jason Holder’s 49 off 31.
Chasing, Quinton de Kock’s explosive 47 off 24, partnering Markram for a 95-run stand, set the tone. Markram himself blazed 82 off 46, including seven fours and four sixes. Ryan Rickelton finished unbeaten with 45 off 28, sealing victory in just 16.1 overs.
‘Top-order consistency is vital,’ Markram noted, lauding de Kock. This win boosts South Africa’s campaign, underlining their bowling strength and batting firepower in the tournament.