T20 WC: South Africa win toss, choose to bowl first against West Indies
Ahmedabad, February 26
South Africa captain Aiden Markram won the toss and opted to bowl first against two-time champions West Indies in both teams' second Super 8s clash at the T20 World Cup 2026, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Thursday.
Both heavyweights, South Africa and West Indies, come into the contest after registering heavy wins in their respective Super 8s opening matches. While Aiden Markram's South Africa defeated co-hosts India by 76 runs in Ahmedabad, Shai Hope-led West Indies swept away Zimbabwe, clinching a massive 107-run win at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium.
After winning the toss and opting to bowl first, Aiden Markram said the pitch looked good but slightly tacky, and that his team would aim to take advantage of the conditions. Having already played a few matches at the venue, he noted their familiarity with the varying conditions of the Narendra Modi Stadium. He confirmed the lineup was unchanged and praised pacer Kagiso Rabada for leading the bowling attack from the front, offering valuable input, and drawing on experience from playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) at the venue.
"Looks a pretty good wicket, we've played a couple of games here; it looks a bit tacky, and we'll look to make the most of it. We've been lucky to have played a few games here, the conditions have been different and we're looking forward to it. Same team. He's leading the team from the front (on Kagiso Rabada), gives some inputs and he's played IPL at this venue."
South Africa vs West Indies T20 WC 2026 match playing 11s:
South Africa: Aiden Markram(c), Quinton de Kock(w), Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi.
West Indies: Brandon King, Shai Hope(w/c), Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Roston Chase, Romario Shepherd, Jason Holder, Matthew Forde, Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph.
— ANI
Reader Comments
After that big win against India, South Africa looks very confident. But never underestimate the West Indies in T20s. They can chase or set any total on their day. Exciting Super 8s!
Rabada's IPL experience at the Modi stadium is a huge plus for SA. He knows the lengths to bowl here. That's the advantage of hosting a global tournament in India - our pitches become a test for everyone.
As a neutral fan in India, just happy to see such high-quality cricket in our stadiums. Both teams are so powerful. Hoping for a last-over thriller! 🤞
Honestly, still recovering from SA beating India so badly. But credit where it's due, they look like the team to beat now. West Indies batting needs to fire against this attack.
Bowling first is the right call. The dew factor in Ahmedabad later on will make it very difficult for the Windies spinners like Motie. Tactics spot on from the Proteas.
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