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David Miller’s blazing fifty powers South Africa to 142/4 after early setbacks

South Africa opted to bat first and reached 142/4 in 14.5 overs, scoring at a healthy run rate of 9.57. After early setbacks—losing Quinton de Kock (6), Aiden Markram (4) and Ryan Rickelton (7) inside the powerplay, they were reduced to 20/3. Dewald Brevis steadied the innings with a brisk 45 off 29 balls, including three fours and three sixes. David Miller then accelerated the scoring with a commanding unbeaten 62 off 33 deliveries, striking seven boundaries and three sixes. Jasprit Bumrah was the pick of the bowlers with 2/7 in two overs, while Arshdeep Singh and Shivam Dube claimed a wicket each.

South Africa 46/3 after early strikes as Bumrah rocks the top order

South Africa reached 46 for 3 in 6.3 overs after opting to bat first. Aiden Markram fell early for 4, while Quinton de Kock managed 6 before being dismissed. Ryan Rickelton scored 7, leaving the side under early pressure. David Miller counterattacked with an unbeaten 18 off 10 balls, striking four boundaries, alongside Dewald Brevis on 9. For India, Jasprit Bumrah claimed two crucial wickets, while Arshdeep Singh picked up one. Despite early setbacks, South Africa maintained a run rate above seven.

Playing XI of India and South Africa

India (Playing XI): Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan(w), Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav(c), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Washington Sundar, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy South Africa (Playing XI): Aiden Markram(c), Quinton de Kock(w), Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi

South Africa won the toss and opted to bat

South Africa won the toss and elected to bat first at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The decision reflects confidence in their batting unit and an intent to put runs on the board early. With conditions expected to favour stroke play initially, South Africa will aim to build a strong foundation.

Sri Lanka Collapse for 95 in 16.4 Overs Despite Shanaka’s 30-Run Effort

Sri Lanka were bowled out for 95 in 16.4 overs after a disappointing batting display. Pathum Nissanka (9) and Kamil Mishara (6) fell early, while Kusal Mendis managed just 4. Pavan Rathnayake was dismissed for a duck. Dunith Wellalage (10) and Kamindu Mendis (13) attempted brief resistance. Captain Dasun Shanaka top-scored with 30 off 24 balls, providing the only meaningful momentum. Dushan Hemantha (5) and Dushmantha Chameera (6) struggled to accelerate, while Maheesh Theekshana remained unbeaten on 10. Dilshan Madushanka was dismissed for nought as wickets fell steadily.

Sri Lanka 26/4, Archer strikes twice

Sri Lanka are under early pressure at 26 for 4 after five overs in pursuit of England’s 146 for 9. Chasing 147, they now require 121 runs from 90 balls with a current run rate of 5.2. Jofra Archer struck twice in his three-over spell, removing Pathum Nissanka and Kamil Mishara, while Will Jacks also claimed two wickets, including Kusal Mendis and Pavan Rathnayake. The top order has struggled to build partnerships, losing four wickets inside five overs. Dunith Wellalage and Kamindu Mendis are at the crease, with significant rebuilding required and senior players yet to bat.

England fails to cross 150

England posted 146 for 9 in their 20 overs against Sri Lanka. Phil Salt led the scoring with a brisk 62 off 40 balls, striking six fours and two sixes at a strike rate of 155. Will Jacks added 21, while Harry Brook chipped in with a quick 14 at a strike rate of 200. Contributions from Sam Curran (11), Liam Dawson (6), Jamie Overton (10*), and others helped England reach a competitive total despite regular wickets. Dunith Wellalage was among the key bowlers for Sri Lanka. In reply, Sri Lanka require 125 runs from 93 balls to chase down the target.

Sri Lanka vs England Preview

Sri Lanka and England battle in Super 8 Group 2 in a key clash that could define their tournament momentum. Hosts Sri Lanka enter with strong form, including a big win over Australia, and will look to capitalise on home conditions and a spin-friendly pitch. England, two-time T20 champions, qualified comfortably but showed inconsistency in the group stage and will depend on leaders like Harry Brook, Jos Buttler and Jofra Archer to deliver. England hold an impressive head-to-head edge in T20s, but Sri Lanka’s recent form and home support make this evenly balanced. Weather may also play a role.

India vs South Africa preview

India and South Africa meet in a major Super 8 showdown at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad (7:00 PM IST, Feb 22). Both teams enter unbeaten and aiming to control Group 1. India have impressed with dominating wins and deep batting depth, while South Africa topped their group with strong all-round displays. India lead their T20 head-to-head against South Africa, including a World Cup final win in 2024. The Ahmedabad pitch is batting-friendly, likely producing a high-scoring contest. Key battles include India’s explosive hitters versus South Africa’s disciplined pace attack, setting up a thrilling night clash.

NBA round- up

Six NBA games were completed last night, highlighted by strong offensive performances and a couple of tight finishes. The Phoenix Suns edged the Orlando Magic 113–110 in a closely contested battle. The New Orleans Pelicans secured a comfortable win over the Philadelphia 76ers, while the San Antonio Spurs delivered an explosive 139-point outing against the Sacramento Kings. Miami continued its momentum with a dominant victory over the Memphis Grizzlies. The Detroit Pistons impressed on the road, defeating the Chicago Bulls by double digits. Meanwhile, the New York Knicks sealed the narrowest win of the night, beating the Houston Rockets 108–106.

New Zealand vs Pakistan washed out

Persistent rain forced the Super 8 clash between New Zealand and Pakistan to be abandoned without a ball being completed, leaving both sides with a point each. Dark clouds loomed over the venue from the outset, and repeated showers prevented the ground staff from preparing conditions suitable for play. Despite multiple inspections and brief hopes of a shortened contest, the umpires eventually called off the match. The washout disrupted momentum for both teams, who were eager to gain an early advantage in the group stage. Instead, they must regroup quickly as the tournament schedule intensifies and net run rate begins to influence qualification scenarios.