South Africa edged past Afghanistan in a thrilling T20 World Cup clash in Ahmedabad, winning after two dramatic super overs to seal a memorable victory. In a match filled with twists and late drama, the Proteas held their nerve to prevail by the narrowest of margins.
Double super over decides thriller
After both teams finished on 187 in regulation time, the contest moved into a super over. The first tie-breaker ended in a deadlock as South Africa matched Afghanistan’s 17-run effort.
David Miller then took charge in the second super over, smashing 16 off four balls to push South Africa to 23 without loss. Afghanistan responded bravely but fell four runs short, ending on 19 for two.
Rickelton and De Kock set tone
Batting first, South Africa posted a competitive 187 for six, built around strong performances from Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton.
De Kock reached his half-century in 34 balls, while Rickelton brought up his fifty in just 23 deliveries. The pair added 114 runs for the second wicket, giving the Proteas a solid platform before Rashid Khan removed both in the same over.
Rahmanullah keeps Afghanistan alive
Afghanistan began their chase in aggressive fashion, racing to 50 without loss in four overs. Lungi Ngidi slowed their progress with key wickets, dismissing Ibrahim Zadran and Gulbadin Naib.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz led the fightback with a brilliant 84 off 42 balls. His attacking innings kept Afghanistan firmly in contention, and at one stage they needed only 67 from 45 deliveries.
Late drama forces tie breaker
Needing 13 runs from the final over, Afghanistan received a boost through two no-balls from Kagiso Rabada. The equation came down to two runs from three balls.
However, Fazalhaq Farooqi was run out while attempting a risky second run, pushing the match into a super over and setting up a dramatic finish.
Maharaj seals famous win
In the second super over, Keshav Maharaj delivered under pressure, taking two crucial wickets. His final-ball dismissal ended Afghanistan’s hopes and confirmed South Africa’s victory.
The win strengthens the Proteas’ position in Group D, adding to their opening success against Canada. Afghanistan, meanwhile, face an uphill task to reach the knockout stage after consecutive defeats.
South Africa will next face New Zealand in Ahmedabad, while Afghanistan meet the UAE in Delhi as they look to revive their campaign.
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