Not one, but two super overs as history is made in T20 World Cup; South Africa defeat Afghanistan

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Cricket fans witnessed a historic and unforgettable match in the T20 World Cup 2026 on Wednesday as South Africa edged past Afghanistan in a thrilling contest. The match went beyond one super over, reaching a double super over for the first time in T20 World Cup history. After both teams were tied in 20 overs and again level in the first super over, the result was finally decided in the second super over, where South Africa emerged victorious and secured two crucial points.

Rickelton and de Kock power South Africa to 187

Batting first after losing the toss, South Africa posted a strong total of 187 runs for six wickets in their 20 overs. Quinton de Kock scored a rapid 59 off 41 balls, while Ryan Rickelton smashed 61 runs from just 28 deliveries. Towards the end, Marco Jansen added quick runs, scoring 16 off 7 balls, to push the team to a competitive score.

In reply, Afghanistan showed great fighting spirit and matched the target, getting all out for 187 in 19.4 overs. With scores level, the match moved into a super over.

First super over tied, second decides the winner

The excitement peaked in the super overs. In the first super over, Afghanistan scored 18 runs, and South Africa responded with 18 runs as well, forcing a second super over. Batting first in the second super over, South Africa blasted 24 runs from six balls. Chasing 25 runs, Afghanistan could manage only 19 runs, handing South Africa a dramatic win.

Afghanistan nearly out of super eight race

This narrow defeat has made Afghanistan’s path ahead extremely difficult. With this loss, the team is almost out of the super eight race. To stay in contention, Afghanistan must win their remaining matches by big margins to improve their net run rate and will also need favourable results from other teams.