Thursday’s T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 fixture at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium pits South Africa against West Indies in a match that could define Group 1 standings. Both squads enter unbeaten and brimming with confidence.
West Indies dominated group play, notching wins by 35 runs (Scotland), 30 runs (England), 9 wickets (Nepal), and 42 runs (Italy). Their 107-run Super 8 demolition of Zimbabwe has them atop Group 1 at +5.350 NRR.
The Proteas sit second at +3.800 NRR after a 57-run rout of Canada, a super over conquest of Afghanistan, 7-wicket dismissal of New Zealand, 6-wicket chase against UAE, and a stunning 76-run victory over India.
Historically, 29 T20 meetings show West Indies ahead 15-14. They last beat South Africa in the 2016 World Cup, but the Proteas triumphed 2-1 in a recent three-match series.
South Africa’s lineup features Aiden Markram (c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brevis, David Miller, and bowlers like Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, and Lungi Ngidi.
West Indies fields Shai Hope (c/wk), Brandon King, Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Jason Holder, and spin duo Akeal Hosein and Gudakesh Motie.
As net run rates loom large, this clash carries massive weight. Expect tactical brilliance, explosive batting, and fiery bowling in what could be a tournament highlight.