February 11, 2026
The South Africa vs Afghanistan T20 World Cup contest began at a pace and never slowed. Afghanistan chose to bowl, hoping early swing would bite. It did not last long.
Quinton de Kock 59 set the tone. He pierced gaps, skipped down the track, and forced the field to spread. That flick over midwicket had the crowd on its feet. Honestly, he looked in complete control.
His 59 came off 41 balls, carved with five fours and three sixes. Even when Rashid Khan struck, de Kock had already tilted the balance. You could sense Afghanistan searching for answers. Then came the surge.
Ryan Rickelton 61 arrived with intent. No sighters. He drove on the rise, pulled with authority, and raced to a 28-ball 61. Few saw that acceleration coming. That partnership flipped everything for South Africa.
In the South Africa vs Afghanistan T20 World Cup battle, early knocks shape the story. Afghanistan fought back through Rashid, but the damage was done. Now, the chase feels steeper than it looks.