In a tournament already defined by high-stakes drama and associate nations punching above their weight, the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 reached a fever pitch this week. The cricketing world stood still as Ahmedabad witnessed an unprecedented double Super Over thriller between South Africa and Afghanistan, while in Mumbai, the West Indies asserted their dominance with a clinical second victory of the campaign.
South Africa Triumph in Ahmedabad Instant Classic
The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad played host to what is already being hailed as one of the greatest matches in T20 World Cup history. South Africa eventually emerged victorious against Afghanistan, but only after a rollercoaster of emotions that required two separate Super Overs to decide a winner.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, the Proteas faced an early setback with the dismissal of captain Aiden Markram for just 5. However, the innings was stabilized and then electrified by a 120-run partnership between Ryan Rickelton and Quinton de Kock. Rickelton smashed a rapid 61 off 28 balls, while the veteran De Kock provided a classy 59 off 41. Their onslaught briefly made a massive total seem certain, but Afghanistan’s captain Rashid Khan turned the tide with a masterful double-strike, removing both set openers in quick succession. Despite late-innings resistance from David Miller and Marco Jansen, South Africa were restricted to 187/6.
Afghanistan’s chase was headlined by a spectacular performance from Rahmanullah Gurbaz. The opener struck 84 off just 42 deliveries, keeping the required rate within reach despite losing partners at the other end. The match careened toward a chaotic finish in the final over of regulation time. With 13 needed off 6 balls, Kagiso Rabada struggled with discipline, conceding two no-balls. In a heart-stopping final delivery, Noor Ahmad was run out while attempting the winning run, leaving both teams tied at 187 and forcing a Super Over.
The first Super Over ended in another deadlock after both sides scored 17 runs. It was only in the second Super Over that South Africa’s experience finally told. After setting a target of 23, Keshav Maharaj held his nerve against a rampaging Gurbaz, who hit three consecutive sixes but fell four runs short on the final ball. Lungi Ngidi was named Player of the Match for his vital 3/26 during regulation time, helping South Africa maintain their unbeaten start to the tournament.
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Spinners Shine as West Indies Claim Second Victory
While Ahmedabad was gripped by a marathon, the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai saw a tactical masterclass as the West Indies notched their second win of the tournament, defeating England by 30 runs. Despite losing their openers Shai Hope and Brandon King within the first two overs, the Caribbean side showed remarkable middle-order depth.
Sherfane Rutherford was the hero of the first innings, smashing an unbeaten 76 off 42 balls, a knock punctuated by seven towering sixes. He found support in captain Rovman Powell (51) and Jason Holder, whose 33 off 17 helped the West Indies plunder 54 runs in the final four overs to reach a formidable 196/6.
England’s response started with a flurry as Phil Salt and Jacob Bethell took advantage of the powerplay, guiding their team to 67/1. However, the introduction of spin changed the complexion of the game entirely. Gudakesh Motie and Roston Chase dismantled the England middle order, with Motie finishing with figures of 3/33. Chase was equally effective, trapping Will Jacks leg-before to leave England reeling. Despite a late charge from Sam Curran, the West Indies’ discipline in the field and exceptional spin bowling proved too much for the former champions, cementing the Windies as a major threat in Group C.
Australia Kick Off Campaign with Statement Win
In Colombo, the 2021 champions Australia began their quest for a second title with a professional victory over Ireland. The Australian bowling attack, led by the craft of Nathan Ellis, proved too clinical for the Irish batters. While Ireland has a history of causing World Cup upsets, they were unable to find momentum against an Australian side that looked composed and hungry. This victory ensures that the heavyweights in Group D remain in a tight battle for the top spots as the race for the Super 8s intensifies.
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