Ahmedabad, Feb 9 (NationPress) — With a stunning finish, a powerful mid-innings display, and a message sent throughout, South Africa showcased their batting prowess by scoring an impressive 213/4 after being invited to bat against Canada during the ninth match of the T20 World Cup 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

Aiden Markram led the charge with an elegant 59 off 32 balls, while David Miller capped the innings with an unbeaten 39 off 23. The Proteas maintained a steady approach at the beginning, took control in the middle, and powered through to the end, leaving Canada on the back foot at every turn.

South Africa quickly seized the initiative. The Powerplay revolved around Markram and Quinton de Kock, who amassed 65 runs without losing a wicket in the first six overs. Their approach was calculated rather than reckless; Markram expertly found gaps, while de Kock kept the scoreboard active, putting pressure on Canada's bowlers.

Extras were not in Canada's favor, with nine runs added by the time they reached 50 in just 4.3 overs. Both Kaleem Sana and Bajwa struggled to find their lengths, resulting in no wickets and no pressure.

If the powerplay depicted control, the middle overs were dominated by South Africa. After a break at 66/0, Markram accelerated, achieving a solid T20 fifty off just 28 balls. Ryan Rickelton joined him, and their second-wicket partnership surged to 56 runs in just 25 balls, pushing the run rate above ten. Canada finally claimed wickets when de Kock and then Markram fell, but the scoreboard read 126/2, and the damage was already done.

Canada saw a glimmer of hope when three wickets fell between the 11th and 14th overs, with Markram, Rickelton, and Brevis returning to the pavilion, leaving the score at 138/4. Ansh Patel bowled effectively during this period, using variations in pace and angles. However, without sustained pressure, it was merely a temporary setback.

Enter David Miller. Calm and composed, Miller partnered with Tristan Stubbs to extinguish any remaining hopes for Canada. Together, they forged an unbeaten 75-run partnership, attacking the final overs with precision. South Africa scored 62 runs in the last five overs, with 21 runs coming off the final over. Miller concluded with 39 off 23, and Stubbs with 34 off 19, reaching 200 in 19.2 overs, even a slow over-rate penalty couldn't hinder their momentum.

Now, Canada faces a daunting target of 214, with Rabada, Ngidi, Jansen, and Maharaj ready to pounce, and the scoreboard pressure firmly resting on South Africa.

Brief scores: South Africa 213/4 in 20 overs (Aiden Markram 59, David Miller 39 not out; Ansh Patel 3-31, Dilpreet Bajwa 1-40) against Canada.