Ahmedabad : In a stunning Super 8 encounter of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, defending champions India suffered a heavy 76-run defeat at the hands of South Africa — a result that will cause significant concern as they pursue World Cup gold.
After winning the toss and electing to bat first at the Narendra Modi Stadium, South Africa recovered from early setbacks to post a competitive 187/7 in 20 overs. The innings was anchored by David Miller’s destructive 63 off 35 balls, supported by Dewald Brevis, who scored 45, and a fiery late cameo by Tristan Stubbs (44 off 24)* — a trio that punished India’s bowling attack with intelligent shot-making.
For India, Jasprit Bumrah offered resistance with the ball, finishing with figures of 3/15, but it wasn’t enough to contain the Proteas after early breakthroughs.
In pursuit of 188, India’s chase faltered from the outset. The top order failed to build any substantial partnership, and despite a gritty 42 from Shivam Dube, the Indian batters were unable to cope with South Africa’s disciplined attack. Italy’s Marco Jansen was especially effective, finishing with outstanding bowling figures of 4/22, while Keshav Maharaj’s three-wicket burst in the 15th over further derailed the chase.
The Indian innings crumbled to 111 all out in 18.5 overs, leaving a target well out of reach and ending their unbeaten streak in this World Cup.
Key Highlights:
South Africa: 187/7 in 20 overs (Miller 63, Brevis 45, Stubbs 44*).
India: 111 all out in 18.5 overs (Dube 42).
Result: South Africa won by 76 runs.
Notable bowling: Jansen 4/22, Maharaj 3/24; Bumrah 3/15.
The defeat not only dents India’s net run rate but also raises difficult questions about the middle order’s ability to cope under pressure — a facet that must improve if India hopes to compete for World Cup gold. With the Super 8 stage only beginning, India must regroup quickly and respond with authority in their remaining fixtures.
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