The Narendra Modi Stadium witnessed a clinical display from South Africa as they launched their T20 World Cup 2026 journey with a resounding 57-run triumph over Canada. Captain Aiden Markram’s whirlwind 59 set the stage for an unforgettable opener.
Batting first post-toss loss, South Africa’s innings exploded with de Kock and Markram’s 70-run powerplay blitz. De Kock departed for 25 (22 balls, 2×4), handing the baton to Rickelton, who alongside Markram, added 56 crucial runs.
Markram’s 10 fours and a six epitomized T20 aggression before he fell at 59. With four down at 138, Stubbs (34*) and Miller (39*) engineered a match-defining 75-run partnership, lifting South Africa to 213/4.
Canada’s innings imploded immediately, captain Bajwa out for nought. Dhaliwal’s 64 (49 balls, 7×4, 1×6) and a 69-run stand with Thakor (33 off 29) offered hope, but wickets tumbled relentlessly. They folded at 156/8 in 20 overs.
Ngidi’s lethal spell of 4/?? dismantled Canada, Jansen took 2, while Rabada and Bosch claimed one apiece. South Africa’s balanced attack complemented their batting fireworks, marking a strong tournament start under Markram’s leadership.