In the Super-8 match of ICC T20 World Cup 2026, the Indian team had to face a crushing defeat by 76 runs against the South Africa national cricket team. This match was played at Narendra Modi Stadium.
Batting first, South Africa scored 187 runs in challenging conditions. In response, the entire Indian national cricket team was all out for 111 runs.
5 big reasons for defeat
1. Question on team selection
Vice-captain Axar Patel was not given a chance in the match, although he has been effective with ball and bat in recent matches. His experience could have been useful to the team.
2. Not taking wickets in the middle overs
In the beginning, Jasprit Bumrah gave a good start by taking 2 wickets and Arshdeep Singh by taking 1 wicket, but could not get wickets in the middle overs. Varun Chakravarthy definitely got one wicket, but he spent 47 runs in 4 overs.
3. Experiment in batting order
All-rounder Washington Sundar was sent at number 5, where he could score only 11 runs. Rinku Singh could be sent in his place, who is capable of handling the innings and accelerating towards the end.
4. Lack of partnership
Indian batting was a complete failure. No major partnership could be formed. Shivam Dube scored the maximum 42 runs, but he did not get support from the other end.
5.Flop of opening pair
The opening pair could not add a single run. Ishan Kishan was out without opening the account, while Tilak Varma returned to the pavilion after scoring just 1 run.