Ngidi destroys Canadian lineup after Markram's explosive fifty
Cricket fans at the Narendra Modi Stadium witnessed a display of raw power and pace on Monday as South Africa secured a comprehensive 57-run victory over Canada in the 9th Match of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup. The Group D clash highlighted the Proteas' depth in both batting and bowling departments, signaling a strong warning to other teams in the tournament.
South Africa was asked to bat first after losing the toss, but they turned the challenge into an opportunity. Captain Aiden Markram led from the front, smashing a rapid 59 off just 32 balls. His innings, coupled with a steady start from Quinton de Kock, laid a solid foundation. While Canada’s Ansh Patel managed to pick up three wickets, he could not stop the flow of runs. The late fireworks came from David Miller and Tristan Stubbs, who remained unbeaten to push the total to a formidable 213/4. Miller’s 39 and Stubbs’ 34 ensured the Canadians faced a mountain of a target.
Chasing 214 for victory was always going to be an uphill battle for Canada, and Lungi Ngidi made sure it was impossible. The South African pacer tore through the top order, dismissing captain Dilpreet Bajwa for a duck in the very first over. Ngidi finished with match-winning figures of 4/31, earning him the Player of the Match award.
Despite the early collapse, Canada showed some fighting spirit. Navneet Dhaliwal played a lone warrior's knock, scoring a respectable 64 off 49 balls. Harsh Thaker also contributed 33 runs, but the required run rate kept climbing beyond their reach. The South African bowling unit, supported by Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada, kept the pressure high, restricting Canada to 156/8 in their 20 overs.
This victory boosts South Africa's net run rate significantly in the South Africa vs Canada T20 World Cup standings, while Canada will need to regroup quickly for their next challenge.
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