The atmosphere at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad was charged with anticipation as West Indies faced South Africa in the 47th match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. In this crucial Super Eights, Group 1 clash, South Africa won the toss and opted to field — a call that brought instant rewards.

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Instead of the expected Caribbean onslaught, the Powerplay belonged entirely to the Proteas. Their discipline with the ball and sharpness in the field set the tone early, highlighted by a stunning catch that shifted momentum decisively.

Keshav Maharaj’s stunner sends Hetmyer packing

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The turning point of the Powerplay came in the third over, bowled by Kagiso Rabada. West Indies were already under pressure after losing captain Shai Hope three balls earlier, and Shimron Hetmyer was tasked with steadying the innings.

Rabada delivered a probing length ball on middle and leg. Hetmyer attempted to break free, clearing his front leg to whip it toward the midwicket boundary. However, he mistimed the shot, getting it off the inner half of the bat.

Positioned at midwicket, Keshav Maharaj reacted instantly. Sprinting to his right, he tracked the dipping ball and flung himself into a full-length dive. With remarkable composure, he reverse-cupped the catch inches above the turf, holding on as he hit the ground. It was a spectacular effort that left the Ahmedabad crowd roaring.

Hetmyer departed for 2 off 3 balls, handing Rabada his second wicket of the over and leaving West Indies in early trouble.

South Africa dominates the Powerplay

Maharaj’s brilliance capped off a dominant opening spell from South Africa. Despite the batting-friendly surface, the West Indies struggled to assert themselves against a disciplined attack.

At the end of six overs, the scoreboard read 52/4. While the run rate stood at a healthy 8.66, the loss of four top-order wickets firmly tilted the contest in South Africa’s favour.

Rabada led the charge with figures of 2/7 in two overs, while Lungi Ngidi provided strong support with 2/11. With Rovman Powell and Sherfane Rutherford at the crease, West Indies faced an uphill task against a Proteas side clearly energised by Maharaj’s moment of magic.