The noise that once rolled across the Narendra Modi Stadium slowly faded into stunned silence on Sunday night as defending champion India national cricket team slumped to a 76-run defeat against the South Africa national cricket team in their Super Eight Group 1 encounter of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
Chasing a challenging 187 for seven, India were bundled out for 111 in 18.5 overs, undone by early setbacks and a middle-order collapse.
The pursuit began shakily. Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma fell in quick succession after miscued strokes against Aiden Markram and Marco Jansen. Brief optimism surfaced when Abhishek Sharma found the boundary and Suryakumar Yadav unfurled crisp fours.
But momentum proved fleeting. Abhishek’s promising stay ended with a catch off Jansen, while a promoted Washington Sundar could not convert his start despite striking Keshav Maharaj for six. When Suryakumar fell to seamer Corbin Bosch, the chase lost direction. Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube and the lower order were left with an insurmountable task.
Earlier, South Africa had rebuilt impressively after early jolts. Markram chose to bat first but saw opener Quinton de Kock dismissed soon after hitting Jasprit Bumrah for four. Markram himself fell to Arshdeep Singh, and Ryan Rickelton soon followed, leaving the Proteas at 20 for three.
The recovery came through David Miller and Dewald Brevis. Miller’s authoritative 63 anchored the innings, his clean hitting complemented by Brevis’ aggression. The pair added 97 runs for the fourth wicket, targeting Varun Chakaravarthy and unsettling India’s rhythm.
Although Brevis eventually miscued and Miller later holed out while attempting another big shot, the damage had been done. Tristan Stubbs provided late impetus, ensuring South Africa finished strongly.
India’s bowlers regained some control at the death, largely through Bumrah’s discipline, but the total proved well beyond reach.
For South Africa, it was a commanding statement. For India, it was a sobering reminder that even champions can falter under pressure.
