T20 World Cup: South Africa will not take West Indies lightly as head-to-head stats surprise

Ahmedabad (The Uttam Hindu): A crucial Super-8 clash of the T20 World Cup 2026 between West Indies cricket team and South Africa national cricket team is set to be played on Thursday at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium. The match will begin at 3 PM and holds significant importance as both teams aim to secure a place in the semi-finals.

South Africa started their Super-8 campaign strongly by defeating India national cricket team by 76 runs, while West Indies registered a dominant 107-run win over Zimbabwe national cricket team.

Although South Africa is considered the stronger and more balanced side, they are unlikely to underestimate West Indies. In T20 history, South Africa does not hold a dominant record against them. Out of 26 encounters between the two teams, South Africa has won 12 matches, while West Indies has emerged victorious in 14.

Both teams’ batting line-ups appear to be in strong form. The pitch at the Narendra Modi Stadium is known to favour batters, with the ball coming nicely onto the bat. Since the match is scheduled in the afternoon, dew is not expected to influence the game.

Both teams may consider batting first, though chasing under lights could also be an effective strategy. A total above 190 runs is likely to be competitive. For South Africa, captain Markram, Quinton de Kock, Brevis, Stubbs and Miller will be key players. For West Indies, skipper Hope along with Hetmyer, Rutherford, Powell and Romario Shepherd will play crucial roles.