It was a dominant display from South Africa, handing the defending champions one of their heaviest defeats in T20 International cricket, while also snapping their 12-match winning streak at T20 World Cups.

Batting first, South Africa posted a commanding 187/7 in their allotted 20 overs, powered by a superb innings from David Miller.

Aiden Markram leading the Proteas onto the field. Photo: Cricinfo

Miller produced a trademark masterclass in finishing, smashing 63 off just 35 balls, including seven fours and three sixes.

He was well supported by the exciting Dewald Brevis, who contributed a crucial 45 off 29 balls (three fours and three sixes), while Tristan Stubbs provided late fireworks with 44 off 24 deliveries.

For India, Jasprit Bumrah was once again exceptional, finishing with 3/15 in his four overs, while Arshdeep Singh chipped in with 2/28.

India’s run chase never really got going after early breakthroughs removed Ishan Kishan (0) and Tilak Varma (1), courtesy of captain Aiden Markram and the towering Marco Jansen.

Despite a fighting 42 off 37 from Shivam Dube, India failed to build meaningful partnerships against a relentless South African attack.

Jansen was outstanding, finishing with 4/22 in 3.5 overs. Spinner Keshav Maharaj added 3/24, while Corbin Bosch impressed with 2/12.

David Miller and Dewald Brevis - Cricinfo

Speaking after the victory, Miller emphasised the importance of composure and teamwork against a world-class Indian side:

“No, it wasn’t easy - playing against India is always really difficult, and they’ve got an incredible team with top players.

When two big teams face off, it’s about doing the simple things well for longer periods. When the pressure comes, you’ve got to absorb it and push through.

Corbin Bosch - Cricinfo

It takes a full team effort. We felt 187 was a good total - maybe we were pushing for 200-plus - but getting three wickets in the powerplay was massive.

The bowlers were phenomenal, and the fielding backed it up. It was an all-round performance that put them under pressure, and it’s always special to get one over India.”

The victory is a major step towards the semi-finals, but the job is far from done. South Africa still has two Super 8 fixtures remaining, starting with a crucial clash against the West Indies on Thursday in Ahmedabad with play set to start at 11:30.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport