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Fans react as Sherfane Rutherford runs riot against England in T20 World Cup 2026 clash
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Fans react as Sherfane Rutherford runs riot against England in T20 World Cup 2026 clash



The electric atmosphere of Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium played host to a Caribbean masterclass on Wednesday, as the West Indies squared off against England in a high-stakes Group C encounter. In the 15th match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, the narrative of the evening was written by pure power and tactical resilience. While the English bowling attack started with clinical precision, they eventually found themselves at the mercy of a brutal counter-offensive that shifted the momentum of the tournament.

Sherfane Rutherford lights up T20 World Cup 2026 with brutal assault on England

The headline of the night belonged to Sherfane Rutherford, whose unbeaten 76 off 42 deliveries turned a precarious situation into a position of absolute dominance. Coming in when the West Indies were struggling to find a rhythm, Rutherford played an innings of two halves, initially steadying the ship before launching a calculated riot against the English seamers.

Rutherford’s knock was a highlight reel of modern T20 batting, featuring 2 fours and 9 towering sixes. He reached his half-century in just 29 balls, signalling a shift in gears that left the English captain searching for answers. His ability to manipulate the field and clear the ropes with ease reminded the world why the West Indies remain the most dangerous side in the shortest format. Whether it was lofting Will Jacks over long-on or punishing Jofra Archer’s pace, Rutherford was immovable, ending with a strike rate of 180.95.

Also READ: Fans erupt as Nathan Ellis and Adam Zampa dismantle Ireland, powering Australia to a crushing win at the T20 World Cup 2026

West Indies post a formidable total against England

The road to a total of 196/6 was far from smooth. The match began with a shock to the West Indian system as Jofra Archer and Sam Curran dismantled the top order within the first two overs. Shai Hope departed for a duck, followed immediately by Brandon King, leaving the Windies reeling at 8/2.

The recovery began with Shimron Hetmyer, who injected much-needed energy with a quickfire 23, helping the team reach 54/3 by the end of the Powerplay. However, the middle overs were a battle of attrition. Adil Rashid was the standout performer for England, strangling the scoring rate with figures of 2/16 and removing the set Roston Chase (34) via a successful LBW shout that survived a DRS challenge.

The momentum swung permanently during the latter half of the innings. After Rovman Powell fell for 14, Jason Holder joined Rutherford to provide a finishing kick. Holder’s cameo of 33 off 17 balls was instrumental, as the duo shared a blistering 50-run partnership in just 26 deliveries. Despite Jamie Overton picking up two late wickets, the damage was done. The West Indies plundered 69 runs in the final five overs, setting England a daunting target of 197 on a surface that began to favour the bold.

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Blow for Ireland as Paul Stirling retires hurt during crucial clash against Australia





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Fans go gaga as Sherfane Rutherford, Gudakesh Motie lead West Indies to an emphatic win over England in T20 World Cup 2026
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Fans go gaga as Sherfane Rutherford, Gudakesh Motie lead West Indies to an emphatic win over England in T20 World Cup 2026



The Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai witnessed a Caribbean carnival on February 11, 2026, as the West Indies dismantled England by 30 runs in a high-stakes Group C encounter of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. In a match defined by raw power and tactical spin, the Windies overcame a disastrous start to post a formidable 196/6, ultimately bowling England out for 166. The victory not only sent the Mumbai crowd into a frenzy but also signaled the West Indies’ intent to reclaim their throne as the kings of the shortest format.

Sherfane Rutherford’s brutal assault resurrects the West Indies against England

The game began like a nightmare for the Men in Maroon. By the second over, Jofra Archer and Sam Curran had removed Shai Hope and Brandon King, leaving the Windies reeling at 8/2. However, the early tremors were merely the setup for a Sherfane Rutherford masterclass.

Rutherford, coming in with the score at 77/4, played an innings of sheer calculated aggression. While Roston Chase (34) and Shimron Hetmyer (23) provided the necessary stabilization, Rutherford provided the fireworks. He hammered an unbeaten 76 off just 42 deliveries, a knock decorated with 6 towering sixes and 9 boundaries.

His assault peaked during the death overs, where he dismantled England’s pace attack with surgical precision. Alongside Jason Holder, who chipped in with a vital 33 off 17, Rutherford powered the West Indies to a total of 196/6. The match flow shifted dramatically in the final five overs, as the Windies plundered runs at a rate exceeding 12 per over, leaving the English bowlers, particularly Will Jacks and Archer, searching for answers.

Gudakesh Motie’s spin web and disciplined bowling halt England in T20 World Cup 2026 game

Chasing 197, England started with the characteristic aggression of Phil Salt, who blazed 30 off 14 balls. At the end of the Powerplay, England sat comfortably at 67/1, looking well on track to chase down the target. However, the introduction of Gudakesh Motie completely flipped the script.

Motie, the left-arm orthodox maestro, proved to be the undoing of England’s middle order. He removed the dangerous Jacob Bethell (33) just as he was looking to anchor the chase, before dismissing Tom Banton and the English captain Harry Brook in quick succession. Motie’s spell of 3/33 acted as a stranglehold, drying up the boundaries and forcing errors.

While Sam Curran waged a lone battle with an unbeaten 43, the lack of support from the other end was glaring. Chase complemented Motie perfectly with 2/29, removing the experienced Jos Buttler just as he threatened to cut loose. The discipline of the West Indies’ bowling unit was reflected in their ability to take wickets at regular intervals, preventing any significant partnerships from forming after the 10th over.

The match concluded in the 19th over when Shamar Joseph dismissed Adil Rashid, sparking wild celebrations in the stands. With this 30-run victory, the West Indies have firmly established themselves as the team to beat in Group C.

Also READ: Fans react as Sherfane Rutherford runs riot against England in T20 World Cup 2026 clash

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Not Aiden Markram! Ryan Rickelton reveals who suggested Keshav Maharaj for Super Over against Afghanistan





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Is Usman Tariq’s bowling action legal? Breaking down the pause controversy
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Is Usman Tariq’s bowling action legal? Breaking down the pause controversy



Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq once again found himself at the centre of an ‘illegal action’ debate during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 clash against United States of America (USA). However, controversy did little to overshadow his impact with the ball.

Tariq delivered a match-defining performance, claiming three crucial wickets – Milind Kumar, Harmeet Singh and Mohammad Mohsin – while conceding just 27 runs in his four overs. His disciplined off-spin proved decisive as Pakistan successfully defended a total of 190, sealing a 32-run victory.

At a time when pressure was mounting during the middle overs, Tariq’s spell halted USA’s chase and shifted momentum firmly in Pakistan’s favour.

Controversy over Usman Tariq’s bowling action

Despite his impressive figures, attention quickly turned to Tariq’s unconventional bowling style. The spinner has previously been reported twice during the Pakistan Super League (PSL), though he was cleared on both occasions after undergoing testing.

Ahead of the T20 World Cup, during Pakistan’s home series against Australia, Australian all-rounder Cameron Green was seen angrily mimicking Tariq’s action after being dismissed by him. Green later apologised upon reviewing replays, acknowledging that his reaction had been misplaced.

Tariq has consistently maintained that his action complies with ICC regulations, offering medical and technical explanations to clarify doubts.

Medical explanation behind Tariq’s action

In medical terms, Tariq reportedly has double-jointed elbows, which prevent him from fully straightening his arm. This anatomical feature gives his bowling action a unique appearance, often leading to misinterpretation.

Cricket history has seen similar cases. Sri Lankan legend Muttiah Muralitharan had a congenital deformity that restricted the straightening of his bowling arm, sparking years of controversy before being cleared.

The introduction of the 15-degree flexion rule, implemented during the tenure of former ICC president Jagmohan Dalmiya, provided clearer guidelines and allowed bowlers with natural hyperextension to continue without penalty, provided they remained within permissible limits.

Tariq’s bowling action features a short, zigzag run-up followed by a brief pause before delivery. While the pause and sidearm release appear unusual, they are consistent across all deliveries. Critics argue that such variations could give a bowler an advantage by disrupting a batter’s rhythm.

However, under ICC regulations, consistency and arm extension are the key factors in determining legality – not aesthetics.

Also READ: From Mayanti Langer, Laura McGoldrick to Grace Hayden: Complete list of presenters for T20 World Cup 2026

Umpire Anil Chaudhary’s take on Tariq’s action

Amid the renewed scrutiny, respected Indian umpire Anil Chaudhary offered a clear and decisive opinion. After reviewing footage of Tariq’s bowling, Chaudhary stated that the action is completely legal.

He explained that although Tariq bowls slightly side-on and incorporates a pause, there is no visible bending or straightening of the arm beyond permitted limits. Importantly, he emphasized that the spinner delivers every ball in the same manner, satisfying the requirement for consistency.

“In my opinion, his action is fair, and this is a fair delivery,” Chaudhary said, reinforcing that unusual does not automatically mean illegal.

Also READ: Fans go crazy as Sahibzada Farhan fires Pakistan to a comprehensive victory against USA in T20 World Cup 2026



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T20 World Cup 2026: Quinton de Kock destroys AB de Villiers’ iconic record for South Africa with a powerful fifty vs Afghanistan
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T20 World Cup 2026: Quinton de Kock destroys AB de Villiers’ iconic record for South Africa with a powerful fifty vs Afghanistan



South Africa’s batting powerhouse took center stage in Ahmedabad on February 11, 2026, as they dismantled the Afghan bowling attack in a crucial T20 World Cup 2026 fixture. The innings was defined by clinical ball-striking from Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton, whose massive second-wicket partnership essentially batted the opposition out of the contest. During this high-stakes encounter, Quinton de Kock managed to eclipse a legendary milestone previously held by AB de Villiers, rewriting the history books for South African cricket. Their collective performance propelled the Proteas to a formidable total of 187/6, leaving the Afghan side with a mountainous chase.

Quinton de Kock shatters AB de Villiers’ legendary Proteas record with a blazing fifty against Afghanistan

In a moment that will be etched in the annals of South African cricket, Quinton de Kock officially surpassed the legendary AB de Villiers to become the nation’s highest run-scorer in T20 World Cup history. Entering the match needing just a handful of runs to eclipse the previous benchmark of 717, de Kock played a measured yet authoritative knock of 59 off 41 balls, taking his tournament tally to 737 runs. This milestone was achieved in 29 matches, one fewer than the 30 appearances it took de Villiers to set the original record. Beyond the aggregate, de Kock also equaled de Villiers for the most fifty-plus scores for South Africa in the competition, with both icons now tied at five.

Also READ: ‘Extra pressure on them’: Usman Tariq reveals his bowling plans ahead of Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 clash with India

T20 World Cup 2026: Ryan Rickelton-De Kock partnership decimates the Afghanistan attack

The defining phase of the South African innings was a blistering 114-run stand between de Kock and Ryan Rickelton, which dismantled Afghanistan’s spin-heavy strategy in the middle overs. After Aiden Markram fell early, Rickelton took on the role of the primary aggressor, smashing a maiden T20 World Cup half-century with 61 runs off just 28 balls. The 10th over proved to be the turning point, as the pair looted 23 runs off Noor Ahmad, forcing the opposition into a defensive shell. While Rashid Khan eventually managed to remove both set batters in the same over, the foundation had already been laid for a massive score. Late cameos ensured that South Africa capitalized on the early carnage, finishing with a total that required Afghanistan to score at nearly 9.5 runs per over.

Top 5 run-scorers for South Africa in T20 World Cups

Rank Player Runs Scored
1 Quinton de Kock 737
2 AB de Villiers 717
3 JP Duminy 568
4 David Miller 482
5 Aiden Markram 448

Also READ: Sri Lanka star Wanindu Hasaranga ruled out of T20 World Cup 2026; replacement announced



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Delhi Capitals rope in England legend as assistant coach ahead of IPL 2026
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Delhi Capitals rope in England legend as assistant coach ahead of IPL 2026



Delhi Capitals (DC) have added fresh energy to their backroom staff ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, appointing an England great as their new assistant coach. The move signals a strategic shift for the franchise after Australian tactician Matthew Mott completed his stint as assistant coach during the 2025 campaign.

After narrowly missing out on a playoff berth last season, the Capitals appear determined to fine-tune both their squad and support system. The management believes that the inclusion of a seasoned international name in the coaching group will bring calmness, tactical depth, and valuable mentorship to a side brimming with talent but seeking consistency.

England icon begins IPL journey as assistant coach of Delhi Capitals

The man entrusted with this responsibility is none other than former England batting mainstay Ian Bell. Widely regarded as one of England’s most elegant and dependable batters of his generation, Bell will be experiencing the IPL environment for the first time in any official capacity.

Bell’s playing career speaks volumes about his pedigree. Representing England in 118 Tests, 161 ODIs, and eight T20 internationals, he was known for his classical strokeplay and composure under pressure. Since retiring from professional cricket in 2020, Bell has quietly built an impressive coaching résumé.

He has been closely associated with England’s Lions and Under-19 setups, playing a crucial role in grooming emerging talent. His eye for technique and temperament has earned praise within English cricketing circles. Bell also served as batting coach for Sri Lanka during their 2024 Test tour of England, gaining valuable international exposure from the other side of the dressing room.

In addition, he had a short assignment with New Zealand’s men’s side during their preparations in England before the 2023 ODI World Cup. On the franchise circuit, Bell was part of Birmingham Phoenix’s coaching unit in The Hundred, further strengthening his T20 credentials.

At Delhi Capitals, he will work under Director of Cricket Venugopal Rao, alongside head coach Hemang Badani and bowling coach Munaf Patel. The Capitals are hopeful that Bell’s calm presence and technical expertise will sharpen their batting unit in crunch situations — an area that cost them dearly in IPL 2025.

Also READ: IPL 2026 Schedule: What’s taking BCCI so long to release the schedule? Here’s what we know

A balanced DC squad ready for the big challenge

Beyond the coaching change, Delhi Capitals have assembled a squad that looks both balanced and battle-ready for IPL 2026. The franchise has blended established Indian stars with smart overseas acquisitions to create a formidable unit.

After parting ways with underperformers such as Faf du Plessis and Jake Fraser-McGurk, DC reinforced their top order by signing Pathum Nissanka and Ben Duckett, while also bringing back Prithvi Shaw to add stability at the top. The trade acquisition of Nitish Rana and the auction steal of David Miller for ₹2 crore provide experience and finishing prowess alongside the retained Tristan Stubbs.

Their pace battery could be one of the most feared in the league, spearheaded by Mitchell Starc, T. Natarajan, and Lungi Ngidi. Meanwhile, the ₹8.40 crore investment in uncapped all-rounder Auqib Nabi Dar could prove to be a masterstroke if he delivers on his potential. In the spin department, the trio of Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Vipraj Nigam ensures control during the middle overs.

Also READ: Will MS Dhoni enter the commentary box? Former skipper opens up on a potential new role



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Sri Lanka star Wanindu Hasaranga ruled out of T20 World Cup 2026; replacement announced
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Sri Lanka star Wanindu Hasaranga ruled out of T20 World Cup 2026; replacement announced



Sri Lanka‘s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign has suffered a major setback with star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga ruled out of the remainder of the tournament due to injury. The co-hosts confirmed the development after the wrist-spinner sustained a left hamstring strain during their opening clash against Ireland in Colombo.

The injury has not only disrupted Sri Lanka’s balance but also dealt an emotional blow to a squad that heavily relies on Hasaranga’s match-winning abilities with both bat and ball.

Grit on display despite visible discomfort for Wanindu Hasaranga

Hasaranga picked up the injury during Sri Lanka’s first match against Ireland at the iconic R. Premadasa Stadium on Sunday (February 8). After bowling just one over, the 28-year-old was seen leaving the field in visible discomfort, clutching his left hamstring.

What followed, however, underlined his commitment to the national cause. Despite struggling physically, Hasaranga returned to complete his full quota of four overs. Battling pain, he produced a decisive spell of 3 for 25, playing a key role in Sri Lanka’s 20-run victory. His wickets broke Ireland’s momentum at crucial junctures and showcased his fighting spirit.

Yet, it was clear that something was amiss. Observers noted a dip in his usual agility and sharpness in the field. Medical assessments after the game confirmed that the injury would require sufficient recovery time, effectively ruling him out of the remainder of the tournament.

A towering presence in Sri Lanka’s T20 setup

Hasaranga’s absence leaves a significant void in Sri Lanka’s lineup. Over the years, he has emerged as the heartbeat of their T20I attack. With 154 wickets in 95 matches, he stands as Sri Lanka’s leading wicket-taker in the shortest format — a testament to his consistency and impact.

His performances on the global stage have been particularly remarkable. He topped the wicket charts in consecutive T20 World Cups, claiming 16 scalps in 2021 and following it up with 15 in 2022. Those campaigns cemented his reputation as one of the premier leg-spinners in world cricket.

Beyond numbers, Hasaranga’s ability to break partnerships in the middle overs and contribute handy runs lower down the order makes him a rare all-round package. Losing such a player midway through a major tournament inevitably forces a tactical reshuffle.

Also WATCH: T20 World Cup 2026 – Maheesh Theekshana castles Paul Stirling with deadly yorker; unleashes iconic ‘archer’ celebration during SL vs IRE clash

Replacement announced for the ace spinner

The ICC’s technical committee has approved fellow leg-spinner Dushan Hemantha as Hasaranga’s replacement for the remainder of the event.

Hemantha, though relatively inexperienced at the highest level, brings promise and recent international exposure. He has featured in five ODIs and three T20Is for Sri Lanka, picking up six wickets across those appearances. His most recent outing came during Sri Lanka’s tour of Zimbabwe in September ahead of the Asia Cup, where he impressed with figures of 3 for 38 in the final ODI of the series.

Team management will now hope that Hemantha can rise to the occasion and shoulder the responsibility in a high-pressure tournament environment.

Also READ: Fans react after Sri Lanka begin T20 World Cup 2026 with win over Ireland as Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga star with ball



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Mitchell Marsh reveals why Tim David will miss Australia’s T20 World Cup 2026 opener against Ireland
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Mitchell Marsh reveals why Tim David will miss Australia’s T20 World Cup 2026 opener against Ireland



Australia will kick off their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign without one of their most destructive batters, with captain Mitchell Marsh confirming that Tim David will miss the opening group clash against Ireland on Wednesday, February 11. The decision, Marsh said, has been taken with a long-term view in mind as the team manages David’s return from a recent hamstring injury.

Mitchell Marsh hints at Tim David’s return in coming games

Despite David looking fluent and powerful in training sessions in Colombo, Australia’s think-tank has chosen caution over urgency. The reigning champions are keen to ensure their premier finisher is fully fit when the tournament reaches its decisive stages, rather than risking an early recurrence. Addressing the media on the eve of the match, Marsh made it clear that David’s absence is temporary.

“We’ll certainly see him come back into contention over the next few games,” the skipper said during his pre-match press conference, offering reassurance to fans eager to see the six-hitting star in action.

Marsh explained that while David is close to match readiness, the medical staff advised against pushing him too soon. The batter has ticked most boxes in training but is being eased back to ensure he is operating at 100 percent when Australia need him most. Notably, David has not played a competitive match since Boxing Day last year, when he suffered the hamstring strain while representing the Hobart Hurricanes in the BBL. The injury forced him to miss Australia’s T20 series in Pakistan, allowing him time to focus solely on rehabilitation.

Also READ: Ricky Ponting explains why Australia will make it to the semifinal of T20 World Cup 2026

Since joining the World Cup squad in Sri Lanka last week, the 29-year-old has impressed behind the scenes. He has batted in nearly every training session, apart from one optional hit-out, and completed several running and fielding drills. On Tuesday, David was even seen sprinting between the wickets in full kit, a sign that his recovery is progressing smoothly.

Injury concerns linger for Australia

David is not the only fitness concern troubling the Australian camp. The 2021 champions are already without two senior fast bowlers, with Pat Cummins ruled out due to a back injury and Josh Hazlewood sidelined with an Achilles issue. There was, however, a boost for the side as Marsh confirmed Nathan Ellis has fully recovered from his hamstring niggle and is available to lead the pace attack. Leg-spinner Adam Zampa has also been cleared after overcoming a minor groin problem.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Ricky Ponting lays out roadmap for Babar Azam’s return to form



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SA vs AFG, T20 World Cup 2026 Match Prediction: Who will win today’s game between South Africa and Afghanistan?
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SA vs AFG, T20 World Cup 2026 Match Prediction: Who will win today’s game between South Africa and Afghanistan?



South Africa are set to face Afghanistan in the 13th match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, with both teams approaching the contest with very different starts to their campaigns. While South Africa began their tournament on a high, Afghanistan will be eager to bounce back after an early setback. With crucial points at stake, both sides know the importance of delivering a strong performance to keep their World Cup ambitions on track.

The Proteas looked in fine touch in their opening game against Canada, registering a commanding 57-run victory. Their batting lineup fired in unison to post a total of 213/4, which proved far too much for the opposition. That all-round display gave South Africa a perfect start and underlined their depth and balance. Led by Aiden Markram, they will be keen to carry that momentum forward, especially with challenging fixtures against Afghanistan and New Zealand coming up in quick succession.

Afghanistan, on the other hand, suffered a five-wicket defeat in their first match against New Zealand, but the result did not tell the full story. Their batters showed admirable intent and confidence, putting up a competitive performance on the day. The bowling attack, however, struggled to maintain control at key moments and will be looking to tighten things up in this clash. Despite the loss, Afghanistan can take heart from the positive mindset they displayed, and they will aim to channel that belief into a stronger, more complete showing against South Africa.

SA vs AFG, T20 World Cup 2026: Match details

  • Date and Time: February 11; 11:00 am IST / 5:30 am GMT
  • Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad

SA vs AFG, Head-to-Head Record in T20Is

Matches played: 03 | South Africa won: 03  | Afghanistan won: 0

Narendra Modi Stadium Pitch Report

The Narendra Modi Stadium has earned a reputation for hosting high-scoring matches, with conditions that largely suit batters. The pitch usually offers good pace and bounce, allowing the ball to come cleanly onto the bat and encouraging fluent stroke-play. This gives batters the confidence to play their shots freely, making the powerplay a crucial phase for teams looking to set a strong platform and post big totals.

That said, fast bowlers are not completely out of the game early on. With a fresh surface and the new ball, there is often some movement and carry on offer, rewarding bowlers who maintain discipline and vary their pace wisely. As the match progresses, however, the pitch tends to slow down, bringing spinners into the picture. The ball begins to grip more, making timing slightly more difficult, particularly through the middle overs.

Squads

South Africa: Quinton de Kock (wk), Aiden Markram (c), Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Jason Smith, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Lungi Ngidi, Corbin Bosch, George Linde, Tristan Stubbs, Kwena Maphaka

Afghanistan: Rashid Khan (c), Noor Ahmad, Abdullah Ahmadzai, Sediqullah Atal, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Naveen Ul Haq, Mohammad Ishaq, Shahidullah Kamal, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Darwish Rasooli, Ibrahim Zadran

Also READ: From Mayanti Langer, Laura McGoldrick to Grace Hayden: Complete list of presenters for T20 World Cup 2026

SA vs AFG, T20 World Cup 2026: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

  • South Africa wins the toss and bats first
  • South Africa’s powerplay score: 50-60 (6 overs)
  • South Africa’s total score: 170-180

Case 2:

  • Afghanistan wins the toss and bats first
  • Afghanistan’s powerplay score: 40-50 (6 overs)
  • Afghanistan’s total score: 150-160

Match result: South Africa to win the contest.

Also READ: ICC confirms whether Pakistan will play against India in T20 World Cup 2026



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T20 World Cup 2026 [WATCH]: Babar Azam denied fifty as Milind Kumar pulls off a stunning diving catch in PAK vs USA clash
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T20 World Cup 2026 [WATCH]: Babar Azam denied fifty as Milind Kumar pulls off a stunning diving catch in PAK vs USA clash



The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 ignited the Singhalese Sports Club (SSC) in Colombo this Tuesday, February 10, as Pakistan and USA faced off in a high-stakes Group A encounter. While Pakistan set a daunting target, the highlight of the first innings was an extraordinary display of athleticism by American fielder Milind Kumar, whose breathtaking catch sent a well-set Babar Azam back to the pavilion, just four runs short of a half-century.

Milind Kumar’s spectacular diving catch halts Babar Azam’s charge against USA

The momentum was firmly in Pakistan’s favor during the 15th over when Babar looked poised to unleash a late-innings assault. Facing leg-spinner Mohammad Mohsin, Babar attempted to exploit a shorter delivery, looking to drag the ball forcefully into the leg side. However, the former captain didn’t quite get the middle of the bat, resulting in a slight top edge that sent the ball soaring toward the long-on boundary.

What looked like a safe landing zone or a potential boundary was quickly closed down by Milind. Sprinting in with lightning speed from the rope, Milind judged the swirling ball to perfection. In a moment of pure T20 magic, he threw himself forward in a full-length dive, clutching the ball inches above the grass as he tumbled across the turf.

The dismissal (46 off 32 balls) was a massive blow for Pakistan, as Babar had struck four boundaries and a six at a strike rate of 143.75. The catch not only denied Babar a landmark fifty but also provided the USA with a vital breakthrough just as the “Green Shirts” were looking to shift into sixth gear.

Here’s the video:

Also READ: Fans react as Tim Seifert and Finn Allen bulldoze through UAE to seal dominant T20 World Cup 2026 win for New Zealand

Pakistan posts formidable total despite late wicket cluster

Despite the brilliance in the field by the Americans, Pakistan managed to post a robust total of 190/9 in their allotted 20 overs. The innings was characterized by a blistering start and a chaotic finish. Sahibzada Farhan was the standout performer for Pakistan, smashing a rapid 73 off 41 balls, including four towering sixes. His partnership with Babar stabilized the innings after the early departures of Saim Ayub and Salman Agha.

USA’s disciplined bowling in the final stretch, including two run-outs in the last over involving Saurabh Netravalkar and wicketkeeper Andries Gous, prevented Pakistan from crossing the 200-mark. However, with a current run rate requirement of 9.55, the USA faces a steep climb.

Also WATCH: Mark Chapman and Daryl Mitchell combine for a brilliant relay catch to dismiss Alishan Sharafu in NZ vs UAE clash





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Fans go crazy as Sahibzada Farhan fires Pakistan to a comprehensive victory against USA in T20 World Cup 2026
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Fans go crazy as Sahibzada Farhan fires Pakistan to a comprehensive victory against USA in T20 World Cup 2026



The iconic Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) in Colombo witnessed a cricketing masterclass today as Pakistan secured a commanding 32-run victory over the United States of America in the 12th Match of Group A at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. While the USA entered the contest with high hopes of an upset, they were ultimately undone by a spectacular batting display from Sahibzada Farhan and a clinical, multifaceted bowling performance from the Men in Green.

Sahibzada Farhan’s fiery knock propel Pakistan to a formidable total against USA

Electing to set a target, Pakistan’s innings was defined by the explosive blade of Farhan. Opening the batting, Farhan turned the SSC into his personal playground, smashing a blistering 73 off just 41 deliveries. His innings, decorated with seven boundaries and five towering sixes, provided the backbone of the Pakistani total.

The powerplay started with intent as Farhan and Saim Ayub (19) put on 54 for the first wicket. However, the USA clawed back momentarily when Shadley van Schalkwyk, the pick of the American bowlers with figures of 4/25 dismissed Ayub and Salman Agha in quick succession during the sixth over.

Despite the double blow, the legendary Babar Azam anchored the middle overs with a composed 46 off 32 balls. His partnership with Farhan shifted the momentum back to Pakistan, punishing anything short or wide. While the lower order suffered a minor collapse in the final overs due to Van Schalkwyk’s clever variations, the damage had been done. Pakistan finished their 20 overs at a daunting 190/9, a total that demanded a record-breaking chase from the associate nation.

Disciplined Pakistan bowling attack stifles USA’s chase

In response, the United States began their chase with cautious optimism. The scorecard reflected a solid start, reaching the 50-run mark in just 5.5 overs. Shayan Jahangir was the standout performer for the Americans, playing a fighting knock of 49. However, the introduction of Pakistan’s spin arsenal completely shifted the match flow.

Usman Tariq emerged as the silent assassin of the evening, dismantling the USA middle order with precision. Tariq finished with stellar figures of 3/27, claiming the crucial wickets of Milind Kumar and Harmeet Singh just as they threatened to accelerate. He was ably supported by the experienced Shadab Khan, whose 2/26 tightened the screws during the middle periods, accounting for the dangerous Monank Patel.

Though Shubham Ranjane struck a late, defiant 51 off 30 balls to keep the USA’s slim hopes alive, the mountain was simply too high to climb. Shaheen Shah Afridi provided the final exclamation point, trapping Ranjane LBW in the penultimate over to end any lingering drama. USA finished on 158/8, falling 32 runs short of the target. With this victory, Pakistan solidifies its position in Group A, leaving the USA to regroup before their next outing against India.

Also WATCH: Babar Azam denied fifty as Milind Kumar pulls off a stunning diving catch in PAK vs USA clash

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also READ: Fans react as Tim Seifert and Finn Allen bulldoze through UAE to seal dominant T20 World Cup 2026 win for New Zealand





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