SA Set 188 as Gurbaz Fights Back for AFG

South Africa posted 187 for 6 against Afghanistan in their T20 World Cup 2026 clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

After being asked to bat first, South Africa recovered from an early setback through a strong partnership between Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton.

The left-handed pair added 114 runs for the second wicket, putting Afghanistan under pressure in the middle overs.

De Kock scored 59, while Rickelton made 61. Both batters reached their half-centuries with attacking strokeplay, regularly finding the boundary.

Afghanistan fought back through captain Rashid Khan, who dismissed both set batters in quick succession. His spell slowed South Africa’s scoring rate after a dominant start.

Dewald Brevis contributed 23 but was unable to accelerate significantly. In the final overs, David Miller remained unbeaten on 20, while Marco Jansen added a quick 16 off seven balls to help South Africa finish strongly.

Chasing 188, Afghanistan began confidently with Rahmanullah Gurbaz leading the charge. Gurbaz played aggressive shots in the powerplay and brought up his half-century in just 28 balls.

At the end of the first six overs, Afghanistan were 56 for 3. Although the run rate remained close to the required mark, three quick wickets shifted momentum in South Africa’s favour.

Fast bowler Lungi Ngidi removed Ibrahim Zadran to break a 51-run opening stand. He later dismissed Gulbadin Naib in the same over, tightening the pressure.

Kagiso Rabada then picked up another wicket, leaving Afghanistan at 52 for 3 within a short span.

South Africa’s bowlers used variations effectively, mixing pace and length to disrupt Afghanistan’s rhythm after the early assault. Spinners Keshav Maharaj and George Linde were introduced as the Proteas aimed to control the middle overs.

At the time of reporting, Afghanistan were rebuilding with Gurbaz still at the crease, but the loss of early wickets had added pressure to the chase.

The match remains finely poised, with South Africa holding a slight edge after clawing back momentum through disciplined bowling.