In a dominant display at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, South Africa posted a formidable 213 for 4 against Canada in the T20 World Cup on Monday. This explosive innings marks the Proteas’ record sixth time crossing the 200-run mark in the tournament’s history, solidifying their reputation as batting powerhouses.
South Africa now leads the charts with six such high-scoring outings, leaving India and West Indies trailing with three apiece. England and Sri Lanka have achieved this feat twice each. The innings showcased clinical aggression, starting with openers Quinton de Kock and captain Aiden Markram forging a brisk 70-run stand off just 41 balls.
Markram top-scored with a brisk 59 off 32 deliveries before departing, while de Kock contributed 25. Ryan Rickelton added 33 to keep the momentum. A mid-innings wobble saw South Africa slump to 138 for 4, but Tristan Stubbs and David Miller turned the tide with a crucial 75-run partnership off 37 balls. Miller remained not out on 39, and Stubbs unbeaten on 34, propelling the team past 200.
Canada’s Ans Patel was the standout bowler with 3 wickets, while Dilpreet Bajwa claimed one. This score ranks as South Africa’s second-highest in T20 World Cups, behind their 229 for 4 against England in 2016 at Wankhede. Earlier tallies include 211 for 5 vs Scotland in 2009 and 209 for 5 vs Afghanistan in 2016. As Canada faces a steep chase, South Africa’s batting depth sends a strong message to rivals in the tournament.