South Africa clinched a nerve-wracking victory over Afghanistan in a historic double Super Over finish during their ICC T20 World Cup Group D clash in Ahmedabad, as the Proteas held their nerve to seal a four-run win after an extraordinary contest that had swung dramatically throughout the evening.
The high-intensity encounter saw both teams tied at 187 runs in their allotted 20 overs, forcing the match into a Super Over. When the first Super Over also ended level, the contest moved into a rare second decider, where South Africa finally prevailed.
Group D Clash Turns Into Instant Classic
Playing at the packed Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan won the toss and opted to field first, backing his bowlers to restrict South Africa on what appeared to be a batting-friendly surface.
South Africa’s innings began cautiously, with Quinton de Kock and captain Aiden Markram opening the batting. However, the Proteas suffered an early setback when Markram was dismissed for 12, caught off the bowling of Fazalhaq Farooqi.
With an early wicket down, De Kock and Ryan Rickelton steadied the innings. The pair counterattacked confidently, putting Afghan bowlers under pressure and building momentum during the middle overs. In a remarkable passage of play, both batters completed their half-centuries in the same over, igniting the South African charge.
Rickelton top-scored with 61, while De Kock contributed 59 in a fluent knock that blended timing with power. Dewald Brevis added 23 runs, and David Miller chipped in with 20, helping South Africa post a competitive total of 187.
Azmatullah Omarzai impressed with the ball for Afghanistan, claiming three wickets, while Rashid Khan added two crucial breakthroughs to keep his side in contention.
Gurbaz Lights Up the Chase
Afghanistan’s reply was spearheaded by an explosive innings from Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who delivered one of the standout performances of the tournament. Opening alongside Ibrahim Zadran, Gurbaz launched a fierce assault on the South African attack.
Striking seven towering sixes and four boundaries, he raced to 87 off just 42 balls, keeping Afghanistan ahead of the required rate for much of the chase. His aggressive stroke play appeared to tilt the match decisively in Afghanistan’s favor at one stage.
However, cricket’s unpredictable nature came to the fore as Afghanistan suffered a dramatic collapse. In a stunning twist, five wickets fell within the space of 13 deliveries, derailing what had looked like a comfortable pursuit.
Despite late contributions from Azmatullah Omarzai (22) and Rashid Khan (20), Afghanistan were bowled out for 187 in the final over, tying the match and sending it into a Super Over. Lungi Ngidi was the pick of the South African bowlers, finishing with three wickets at a crucial juncture.
First Super Over Fails to Separate the Sides
In the first Super Over, Afghanistan batted first and posted 17 runs in a tense, high-pressure six-ball contest. South Africa matched the total exactly, also scoring 17 runs, ensuring the deadlock remained unbroken.
The rare occurrence of a tied Super Over forced match officials to initiate a second Super Over, adding further drama to an already unforgettable night.
Proteas Hold Their Nerve in Second Decider
Batting first in the second Super Over, South Africa unleashed an aggressive display, amassing 23 runs to set a daunting target. The Afghan bowlers struggled to contain the big hits under immense pressure.
Afghanistan responded bravely but fell just short, managing 19 runs. The four-run margin handed South Africa a thrilling victory and crucial points in Group D.
The win further strengthens South Africa’s campaign after their opening triumph over Canada by 57 runs, while Afghanistan — who had earlier lost to New Zealand — now face mounting pressure to secure victories in their remaining fixtures.
Tournament Implications and Team Outlook
The dramatic outcome could prove pivotal in shaping Group D standings. South Africa’s ability to close out tight contests under pressure may serve as a confidence boost heading into tougher challenges later in the tournament.
For Afghanistan, the narrow defeat will be heartbreaking. Their batting firepower, highlighted by Gurbaz’s brilliance, demonstrated their capability to challenge top sides. However, the middle-order collapse and inability to capitalize in the Super Overs exposed areas requiring urgent attention.
Cricket analysts have already labeled the match one of the most thrilling encounters of this T20 World Cup, praising both teams for their fighting spirit and competitive intensity.
As the tournament progresses, South Africa will look to build momentum, while Afghanistan must regroup quickly to keep their semifinal hopes alive. If this match is any indication, Group D promises further drama in the days ahead
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