T20 World Cup 2026: Double Super-Over Drama as South Africa Edges Afghanistan; Windies and Australia Secure Dominant Wins
By Sachit Subba • Cricket • Feb 11, 2026 17:54 PM • 39 views
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 exploded into life this week with a trio of high-stakes encounters that have shifted the landscape of the group stages. From an unprecedented double Super Over in Ahmedabad to clinical displays by former champions in Colombo and Mumbai, the race for the Super 8s is officially heating up.
A Night of Infinite Drama: Proteas Prevail in Double Super Over
In what will surely be remembered as a classic at the Narendra Modi Stadium, South Africa survived a monumental scare against a resilient Afghanistan side.
Batting first, the Proteas posted a formidable 187/6, anchored by a classy 61 from Ryan Rickelton and a brisk 59 off 41 balls from Quinton de Kock. However, Afghanistan refused to blink. Opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz played a sensational knock of 84, supported by Azmatullah Omarzai and Rashid Khan, guiding his team to a matching total of 187.
With the scores tied, the first Super Over ended in another stalemate. It took a second Super Over to separate the two sides. Chasing a daunting 23-run target in the final shootout, Afghanistan managed only 18, handing South Africa their second consecutive win in Group D. While the Proteas sit comfortably, Afghanistan's path to the Super 8s looks precarious following their opening loss to New Zealand.
Rutherford and Motie Stun Defending Champs in Mumbai
Over at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, the West Indies issued a massive statement of intent by toppling powerhouse England by 30 runs.
Despite a shaky start that saw them lose two early wickets, the Windies recovered to post a massive 196/4, thanks to a masterclass from Sherfane Rutherford. Rutherford smashed an unbeaten 76 off just 41 deliveries, punctuated by six towering sixes.
England’s chase never truly found its rhythm against the spin of Gudakesh Motie, who claimed three vital wickets. Despite Sam Curran’s unbeaten 43, the English side was bundled out for 166 with six balls to spare. This victory puts the West Indies at the top of Group C with 4 points, leaving England and Scotland scrambling with 2 points each. All eyes now turn to the upcoming clash between Nepal and Italy in this same group.
Australia Begins Campaign with Clinical Rout of Ireland
In Colombo, the 2021 champions Australia showed no signs of rust, dismantling Ireland by 67 runs at the R. Premadasa Stadium.
The Aussies set a challenging target of 183, fueled by Marcus Stoinis (45 off 29) and solid contributions from Josh Inglis and Matt Renshaw. Ireland’s reply was stifled by the disciplined bowling of Nathan Ellis and Adam Zampa, who picked up two wickets apiece. The Irish were eventually dismissed for a meagre 115 in 16.5 overs, unable to handle the pace and variety of the Australian attack.
As the tournament progresses, the pressure mounts on traditional giants like England and emerging forces like Afghanistan. With the Super 8 spots on the line, every delivery now carries the weight of a nation.
