South Africa crush India by 76 runs, defending champs stunned in Super 8

Chasing a challenging target of 188, the defending champions were bowled out for 111, as South Africa’s disciplined bowling attack dismantled India’s batting line-up and ended their winning run in the tournament.

The result marked a reversal of fortunes from 2024, when India had beaten South Africa in the final to lift the T20 World Cup title.

Earlier, South Africa posted a competitive 187 for seven in their allotted 20 overs. David Miller led the charge with a fluent 63, anchoring the innings after early setbacks. Dewald Brevis contributed 45, while Tristan Stubbs added 44, helping the Proteas recover after an incisive opening spell from Jasprit Bumrah.

Bumrah was the standout bowler for India, claiming three wickets, while Arshdeep Singh chipped in with two.

In reply, India’s batting struggled from the outset. Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma fell cheaply, while Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya failed to convert their starts.

Shivam Dube emerged as India’s top scorer with 42, but lacked support at the other end as wickets fell at regular intervals.

Marco Jansen was the pick of the South African bowlers, taking four wickets, while spinner Keshav Maharaj claimed three to seal a comprehensive victory.

India must now defeat Zimbabwe in their next fixture to keep their semi-final hopes alive. South Africa are scheduled to face West Indies in Ahmedabad on Wednesday.