The defeat marked India’s first loss of the ongoing 20-team tournament and ended their 13-match unbeaten streak in T20 World Cups since their 10-wicket semi-final defeat to England in the 2022 edition. Across all ICC events, it was India’s first loss in 18 matches, their previous setback coming in the 2023 ODI World Cup final against Australia — also at the same venue.
India falter in chase
Chasing a formidable 188-run target, India were bowled out for 111 in 18.5 overs despite a fighting 42 from Shivam Dube. The all-rounder stood alone as wickets fell regularly against a disciplined South African attack.
Hardik Pandya and captain Suryakumar Yadav scored 18 each, while Abhishek Sharma (15) and Washington Sundar (11) were the only other batters to reach double figures.
Marco Jansen led the bowling charge with four wickets, while spinner Keshav Maharaj claimed three — all in a decisive 15th over that broke the backbone of India’s chase. Corbin Bosch picked up two wickets and skipper Aiden Markram chipped in with one.
Miller, Brevis stage recovery
Earlier, South Africa posted 187/7 after opting to bat. Their innings was anchored by a 97-run fourth-wicket stand between Miller and Dewald Brevis.
India’s pace duo Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh had reduced South Africa to 20 for 3 inside four overs, removing Markram, Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton.
Miller and Brevis counterattacked emphatically, adding 97 runs off just 49 deliveries to swing momentum. Brevis scored 45 off 29 balls, striking three sixes and three fours before falling to Dube.
Miller continued the assault, adding 35 runs with Tristan Stubbs before being dismissed by Varun Chakravarthy in the 16th over. He top-scored with a blistering 63 off 35 balls, including seven fours and three sixes.
Stubbs remained unbeaten on 44 off 24 deliveries, guiding South Africa to a competitive total.
For India, Bumrah was the standout bowler with figures of 3 for 15 in four overs. Arshdeep took two wickets, while Chakravarthy and Dube claimed one apiece.
The comprehensive victory significantly boosted South Africa’s Super Eight campaign while handing India a rare setback in global tournament play.
