South Africa defeated Afghanistan after two dramatic Super Overs in one of the most thrilling matches of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at Ahmedabad. After both teams finished on 187 in regular time and then scored 17 each in the first Super Over, South Africa finally sealed victory in the second Super Over to register their second win of the tournament.
The match had everything: big partnerships, a late collapse, no-balls in the final over, and a last-ball finish in the second Super Over.
Gurbaz And Top Order Firepower Push Match To The Edge
South Africa posted 187 for 6 after being asked to bat. Quinton de Kock scored 59 off 41 balls while Ryan Rickelton smashed 61 off just 28 balls. Their 114-run partnership for the second wicket gave the Proteas a strong base. Though Afghanistan pulled things back in the final overs, South Africa still managed a competitive total.
In reply, Rahmanullah Gurbaz played one of the best knocks of the tournament. He scored a stunning 84 off 42 balls and attacked from the start. Afghanistan raced to 50 in just over four overs. However, they lost three quick wickets, and the chase looked in trouble.
Gurbaz kept fighting and added important runs with Darwish Rasooli. With wickets falling at the other end, he almost took Afghanistan home single-handedly. But with scores level and victory in sight, Afghanistan lost their last wicket while trying to take a second run, forcing a Super Over.
Double Super Over Delivers Unmatched Drama
In the first Super Over, Afghanistan scored 17 runs. South Africa were under pressure after losing a wicket, but Tristan Stubbs hit a six off the final ball to tie the scores and force a second Super Over.
In the second Super Over, South Africa raised the bar. Stubbs and David Miller powered the team to 23 runs with three sixes in the over. Afghanistan needed a big reply.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz once again tried to pull off something special by hitting three consecutive sixes off Keshav Maharaj. But with the match on the line, Maharaj bowled a perfect delivery, and Gurbaz was caught on the final ball. Afghanistan finished short, and South Africa completed a famous win.
The victory takes South Africa level on points with New Zealand at the top of Group D. Afghanistan remains winless after two matches, but showed great fight in a match that will be remembered for a long time.
