Cricket fans were treated to one of the most dramatic matches of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 as South Africa edged out Afghanistan in a heart-stopping double Super Over battle on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. This wasn’t just another league game, it was a roller-coaster of momentum shifts, brilliant individual displays, and nail-biting tension that had supporters on the edge of their seats.
South Africa set a competitive total of 187 for 6 in their 20 overs, backed by explosive batting from Quinton de Kock (59) and Ryan Rickelton (61), who put on a powerful partnership after an early breakthrough from Afghanistan’s bowlers. The Proteas’ innings was anchored by smart strokeplay and timely aggression, laying down a challenging target for the Afghan side.
Afghanistan’s chase started with flair and intent, led spectacularly by Rahmanullah Gurbaz, whose sensational 84 off 42 balls kept his team firmly in the contest. He dominated the bowlers and kept the required rate in check as Afghanistan battled through the innings. With the game swinging back and forth, Afghanistan managed to reach 187 on the final legal delivery, tying the match and sending it into a Super Over.
In the first Super Over, Afghanistan batted first and posted 17 runs without loss, with some clean hitting under pressure. South Africa responded in kind, matching the exact score with a late six by Tristan Stubbs to force an unprecedented second Super Over.
The second Super Over was equally dramatic. South Africa unleashed an all-out attack and tallied an impressive 23 runs, putting immense pressure on the Afghan chase. That’s when Gurbaz produced fireworks smashing three consecutive sixes, briefly reigniting belief among Afghan supporters. With victory within touching distance, he needed a boundary off the final ball to force yet another tie, but was unable to find it and the Proteas held on for a thrilling 4-run win in this historic encounter.
This match will be remembered not just for the rare double Super Over, but for the sheer competitive spirit displayed by both teams, the explosive batting, and the nerve-shredding finish that perfectly captured the excitement of T20 cricket at its highest level.
Key Moments
- South Africa’s power stand between De Kock and Rickelton set the tone with a big total.
- Gurbaz’s blitz kept Afghanistan in the hunt with a standout innings.
- First Super Over tied after South Africa matched Afghanistan’s 17.
- Second Super Over saw South Africa take the edge with 23, before Afghanistan’s valiant chase fell just short.
This showdown will go down as one of the most compelling matches of the 2026 World Cup, a testament to the unpredictability and thrill that T20 cricket uniquely delivers.
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