The 2024 finalists, South Africa, began their 2026 campaign with a statement of intent, overpowering Canada in a one-sided South Africa vs Canada T20 World Cup 2026 clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. A blistering half-century from captain Aiden Markram followed by a clinical bowling performance led by Lungi Ngidi ensured a comfortable start for the Proteas.
Markram and Middle Order Power South Africa to 213
After being put in to bat, South Africa’s openers signaled their aggressive intent early. Captain Aiden Markram led from the front, smashing 59 off just 32 balls, including 10 boundaries. He shared a 70-run opening stand with Quinton de Kock (25) that set a perfect platform.
While Canada’s Ansh Patel briefly threatened a collapse by taking three quick wickets—including Markram and Ryan Rickelton (33)—the Proteas’ depth proved too much. David Miller (39)* and Tristan Stubbs (34)* unleashed a late-innings assault, adding 75 runs in the final six overs to propel South Africa to a massive 213/4, the highest total of the tournament so far.
Lungi Ngidi Dismantles Canada’s Top Order
Canada’s chase of 214 got off to a nightmare start. Lungi Ngidi struck with the very first ball of the innings, dismissing Canadian captain Dilpreet Bajwa for a duck. Ngidi continued his rampage in the third over, removing Yuvraj Samra and Nicholas Kirton to leave Canada reeling at 26/3.
Despite the early carnage, Canada found a hero in Navneet Dhaliwal. Showing immense grit, Dhaliwal played a lone-hand innings of 64 off 49 balls, featuring seven fours and a six. He found some support from Harsh Thaker (33), but the mountain was too steep to climb against a world-class pace attack.
Clinical Finish Seals Two Points
Ngidi returned to break the 69-run stand between Dhaliwal and Thaker, finishing with stellar figures of 4/31. Marco Jansen chipped in with two wickets at the death to ensure there was no late miracle for the Associate nation.
Canada finished their 20 overs at 156/8, falling 57 runs short of the target. The win places South Africa at the top of Group D with a healthy Net Run Rate.
Match Summary: SA vs CAN
| Team | Score | Top Performer |
| South Africa | 213/4 (20) | Aiden Markram (59), Lungi Ngidi (4/31) |
| Canada | 156/8 (20) | Navneet Dhaliwal (64), Ansh Patel (3/31) |
Result: South Africa won by 57 runs.
Player of the Match: Lungi Ngidi
