T20 World Cup 2026 : South Africa Defeat Afghanistan by 4 Runs in Thrilling Double Super Over Clash

Ahmedabad

In one of the most dramatic matches of the T20 World Cup 2026 so far, South Africa edged past Afghanistan by four runs in a second Super Over at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The contest saw both teams refusing to back down, with the outcome decided only after two Super Overs.

Second Super Over Decides the Thriller

Batting first in the second Super Over, South Africa posted a formidable 23 runs. David Miller smashed 16 runs off just four balls, while Tristan Stubbs added 7 off two deliveries.

Chasing 24 for victory, Afghanistan had a shaky start, failing to score off the first two balls and losing Mohammad Nabi early. With 24 needed off the last four deliveries, Rahmanullah Gurbaz reignited hopes by hammering three consecutive sixes off Keshav Maharaj, along with a wide. However, needing five runs off the final ball, Gurbaz failed to clear the boundary and was dismissed, handing South Africa a narrow four-run win.

In the first Super Over, Afghanistan had scored 17 runs, only for South Africa to match the total, forcing the second tie-breaker.

Gurbaz’s Heroics Take Afghanistan Close

Earlier in the match, chasing a target of 188, Afghanistan were bowled out for 187 in 19.4 overs, tying the game. Wicketkeeper-batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz played a sensational knock of 84 off 42 balls, striking four fours and seven sixes. He was nearing a century before being caught by George Linde off Keshav Maharaj.

The rest of the top order struggled, with Ibrahim Zadran (12), Gulbadin Naib (0), Sediqullah Atal (0), and Rasooli (15) failing to provide support. Mohammad Nabi managed just 5 runs.

Azmatullah Omarzai contributed 22 off 17 balls, while Rashid Khan added 20 off 12. Noor Ahmad, batting at No. 10, scored a quick 15 off nine balls, including two sixes, bringing Afghanistan within touching distance. However, Fazalhaq Farooqi was run out while attempting the winning run, resulting in a tie.

Lungi Ngidi was the standout bowler for South Africa with three wickets.

De Kock and Rickelton Power South Africa

After losing the toss, South Africa posted 187 for 6 in their allotted 20 overs. Quinton de Kock scored 59 off 41 balls, including five fours and three sixes, while Ryan Rickelton blasted 61 off 28 deliveries, hitting five fours and four sixes. The duo stitched together a 114-run partnership for the second wicket.

Dewald Brevis (23), David Miller (20), and Marco Jansen (16) also chipped in with valuable runs. For Afghanistan, Azmatullah Omarzai claimed three wickets, Rashid Khan took two, and Fazalhaq Farooqi picked up one.

The match will be remembered as one of the most thrilling encounters in T20 World Cup history, showcasing high drama and exceptional performances from both sides.

About Author