Proteas claim victory after two intense tie-breakers in Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad — Cricket fans at the Narendra Modi Stadium witnessed one of the most dramatic finishes in tournament history on Wednesday. In a Group D clash that defied belief, South Africa defeated Afghanistan after the match was tied not once, but twice, forcing a rare second Super Over.

Proteas Set a Strong Target

South Africa batted first and looked comfortable on a good batting surface. Openers Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton provided a blistering start. Rickelton smashed a rapid 61 off 28 balls, while the experienced de Kock added 59. Despite a middle-order wobble caused by Azmatullah Omarzai’s three wickets, South Africa posted a competitive total of 187/6.

Gurbaz Threatens to Steal the Show

Afghanistan’s chase was headlined by a spectacular knock from wicketkeeper Rahmanullah Gurbaz. He tore into the Proteas attack, scoring 84 runs from just 42 deliveries, including seven massive sixes. At one stage, Afghanistan seemed destined for an easy win. However, the pressure of the South Africa vs Afghanistan T20 World Cup encounter got to the lower order. Lungi Ngidi bowled a brilliant spell, taking 3 for 26, causing Afghanistan to lose momentum. They were bowled out for 187 on the final legal delivery, tying the game.

Double Super Over Madness

The drama intensified in the first Super Over. Afghanistan posted 17 runs, and incredibly, South Africa matched exactly that score, ending at 17/1.

Rules dictated a second Super Over. This time, South Africa sent in David Miller and Tristan Stubbs. They smashed 23 runs, putting immense pressure on the Afghan chasers. Keshav Maharaj then held his nerve with the ball, restricting Afghanistan to 19 runs and taking two wickets to finally seal the victory for the Proteas.

Lungi Ngidi was named Player of the Match for his crucial spell in regulation time that kept South Africa in the hunt.

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