Daijiworld Media Network - Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad, Feb 23: South Africa captain Aiden Markram hailed his team’s adaptability after the Proteas secured a commanding 76-run victory over India in the Super 8 clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday.

Opting to bat on a slow black-soil surface, South Africa recovered from 20/3 to post a challenging 187/7 in 20 overs. David Miller top-scored with 63, while Dewald Brevis (45) and Tristan Stubbs (44 not out) played crucial knocks to stabilise the innings.

In reply, India were bundled out for 111 in 18.5 overs, with Marco Jansen leading the charge with an impressive 4/22, as the South African bowlers executed their plans to perfection.

“Great performance. Very different type of wicket to what we've had here, so great to see the boys assess that pretty early and adapt their skills to execute their plans. We're really pumped for the bowling group,” Markram said during the post-match presentation.

He credited the 97-run partnership between Miller and Brevis for reviving the innings after early setbacks. “First and foremost was that partnership. The guys were great, steadied the ship and kept us in the game,” he added.

Markram said the middle-overs batting made the difference. “It was about finding space, running hard, dropping the ego and taking as much as we could at the back end. They bowled well up front and at the death, but our batting through the middle was probably the difference.”

He also praised the fielding effort and the impact of pacer Lungi Ngidi, noting improved team cohesion compared to earlier matches.

Looking ahead to the clash against the West Indies, Markram said the team would enjoy the win but quickly refocus. “It’s a big game for us. We don’t want to take confidence for granted. Important to rock up on the 28th and take it on full steam ahead,” he said.

Player of the Match Miller said his approach was to stick to his strengths and stay aggressive. “During the powerplay, all fielders were in the ring so thought of going over. Trying to get a partnership and rotate strike,” he said.

He added that at the Ahmedabad venue, hitting straight was key. “With the nature of this ground, you want to look straight. Smaller there than square. Looking to be nice and aggressive against the spinners. They have world-class bowlers, so it’s about putting them under pressure.”

The comprehensive win has strengthened South Africa’s campaign as they head into a crucial phase of the tournament.