Thrills and spills defined the T20 World Cup 2026 showdown in Ahmedabad, where Quinton de Kock’s masterful 59 off 41 balls – packed with three sixes and five fours – not only powered South Africa to victory but also crowned him their highest T20 World Cup run-getter at 737. The opener eclipsed AB de Villiers’ 717 in the 13th match against Afghanistan.
De Kock’s fifth half-century tied de Villiers’ record, leapfrogging Markram’s four. With Rickelton’s 61, South Africa hit 187/6, shrugging off Omarzai (3 wickets) and Khan (2).
Gurbaz’s explosive 84 (42 balls, 7 sixes, 4 fours) nearly turned the tide for Afghanistan, but they were bowled out for 187 in 19.4 overs. Ngidi led the attack with three scalps, backed by single-wicket hauls from four teammates.
The game went to super overs – 17 apiece first time, then South Africa’s 21/0 outdid 19/1. De Kock’s landmark performance has fans and analysts hailing a new era for South African batting. This win sets a strong tone, with De Kock’s form promising fireworks ahead in the tournament.