Source NDTV sport
AHMEDABAD – In a dramatic Super 8 encounter at the Narendra Modi Stadium, the West Indies overcame a catastrophic top-order collapse to post a competitive 176/8 against South Africa. While the Proteas’ openers have begun the chase with aggressive intent, the story of the first innings belonged to a record-breaking lower-order recovery that has left fans—including a large contingent of Indian supporters—on the edge of their seats.
The Great Caribbean Collapse
After being put into bat by South African skipper Aiden Markram, the West Indies started with a flurry of boundaries before the wheels completely fell off. Lungi Ngidi (3/30) and Corbin Bosch (2/24) tore through the “Men in Maroon,” reducing them to a staggering 83/7 by the 11th over. Heavyweights like Rovman Powell and Sherfane Rutherford fell cheaply, leaving the Ahmedabad crowd wondering if the match would even last the full 20 overs.
The Shepherd-Holder Masterclass
Just as South Africa looked ready to wrap up the innings, Romario Shepherd and Jason Holder combined for an extraordinary 89-run partnership for the eighth wicket.
Romario Shepherd: Anchored the fightback with a brilliant 52 off 37 balls*, reaching his maiden T20I fifty on the final ball of the innings.
Jason Holder: Provided the muscle, smashing 49 off 31 balls, including a massive 90-meter six off Marco Jansen, before being tragically run out on the penultimate delivery.
Their defiance shifted the momentum entirely, turning a sub-100 total into a challenging target of 177.
South Africa’s Blazing Start
The Proteas began their chase with clear instructions to utilize the powerplay. Quinton de Kock and Aiden Markram have come out firing, dealing primarily in boundaries to put the West Indian bowlers under immediate pressure.
For the Indian fans watching in the stands, the high-scoring drama is a welcome sight. With South Africa fresh off a victory against India earlier in the tournament, local supporters are keeping a close eye on the Group 1 standings, as this result will significantly impact India’s path to the semi-finals.
Current Match Status
West Indies: 176/8 (20 overs)
South Africa: 12/0 (1.2 overs)
Target: 177 runs
Top Performers: Romario Shepherd (52*), Lun
gi Ngidi (3/30)
