With only two teams progressing to the Super Eight from each group, Afghanistan find themselves in a do-or-die situation as they prepare to face an in-form South Africa in their Group D clash of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup on Wednesday.

South Africa sit comfortably at the top of the group after a commanding 57-run win over Canada, a result that not only earned them two points but also boosted their Net Run Rate to an imposing 2.850. The Proteas have looked a class apart so far and enter this contest brimming with confidence.

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Afghanistan, meanwhile, slipped to third place following a five-wicket loss to New Zealand. Despite posting a competitive 182 for six while batting first, powered by Gulbadin Naib’s blistering 63 off 35 balls, the Afghans failed to apply pressure with the ball. Their Net Run Rate now stands at -1.162, making improvement essential if they are to stay alive in the tournament.

The decision to leave out Noor Ahmad at Chepauk proved costly, as Afghanistan’s fast bowlers struggled with execution and consistency. Even skipper Rashid Khan endured an off day, conceding 36 runs in his four overs. Mujeeb Ur Rahman’s tidy 2/31 was the lone bright spot in an otherwise disappointing bowling effort.

As Group D tightens, Afghanistan know they must produce a significantly improved performance, especially against a side they have never beaten in T20 World Cups. Their head-to-head record against South Africa makes for grim reading, defeats by nine wickets in 2024, 37 runs in 2016 and 59 runs in 2010.

South Africa, runners-up in the previous edition, were clinical against Canada. Captain Aiden Markram led from the front with a fluent 59, while contributions throughout the order pushed them past the 200-run mark. The bowling attack then completed a comprehensive all-round display.

There will be some focus on Dewald Brevis after another low score, a 6 against Canada with the young batter still searching for consistency at international level. David Miller’s unbeaten 39, however, offered reassurance, particularly after doubts over his fitness ahead of the tournament.

With Afghanistan desperate to revive their campaign and South Africa eyeing early qualification, Wednesday’s clash promises high stakes and mounting pressure in Group D.

Match starts at 11:00 am IST.

(By PTI Inputs)