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South Africa Edge Afghanistan in Epic Double Super Over Clash at T20 World Cup 2026
Cricket fans were treated to one of the most dramatic matches of the 2026 T20 World Cup as South Africa and Afghanistan delivered a contest that will be remembered for years to come. In a game filled with twists, momentum swings, and extraordinary performances, the Proteas managed to hold their nerve and maintain their unbeaten run in Group D — but not before surviving a massive scare.
After 40 overs of gripping action, both teams were locked at 187, forcing the contest into a Super Over. When that too failed to separate the sides, a second Super Over was required to finally determine the winner in what turned out to be a breathtaking spectacle.
South Africa’s innings was built on a commanding opening partnership between Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton. The duo laid a solid foundation, combining for a superb 114-run stand that put Afghanistan under early pressure. De Kock struck a fluent 59, blending power and precision, while Rickelton impressed with a well-crafted 61 that kept the scoreboard ticking at a healthy rate. Despite a few late wickets slowing their momentum, the Proteas posted a competitive 187 for 6 from their 20 overs.
Afghanistan’s chase was anything but straightforward, yet it was fueled by a sensational knock from Rahmanullah Gurbaz. The aggressive opener played with fearless intent, smashing 84 runs in a blistering display that kept his side firmly in contention. As wickets tumbled around him, Gurbaz ensured Afghanistan remained within striking distance. The tension reached boiling point in a chaotic final over, where the Afghans were bowled out for 187 in 19.4 overs — drawing the scores level and sending the match into a Super Over.
The first Super Over only added to the drama. Both teams traded big hits under immense pressure, matching each other run for run to finish tied once again. With nerves stretched to the limit, a second Super Over was needed to settle the contest.
This time, South Africa seized control. David Miller and Tristan Stubbs unleashed a barrage of powerful strokes, plundering 23 runs to swing the momentum decisively in their favour. Their explosive hitting proved too much for Afghanistan to counter, finally bringing the marathon encounter to a close.
The thrilling victory ensures South Africa remain unbeaten in their group, but Afghanistan earned widespread admiration for pushing one of the tournament’s strongest sides to the brink. It was a match that showcased the unpredictable magic of T20 cricket — where fortunes can change in a single delivery and heroes emerge under the brightest lights.
