South Africa Go into the 2nd T20I at SuperSport Park with a significant momentum following a clinical win against 9. West India in the series opener. with ICC T20 World Cup 2026 with a few weeks to go, both teams are using this series as a final dress rehearsal to fine-tune their squads.
Key stories ahead of the 2nd T20I
- Protease boosters: In Paarl, South Africa, the key players are expected to return the heavy hitting after being rested Quinton de Kock, Tristan Stubbsand pace spearhead Marco Jansen. Their inclusion makes an already dominant side even more formidable.
- West Indies are struggling with woes: The Caribbean side struggled to find a rhythm, relying too much on the first game. Shimron Hetmyer (32 of 48). They need more significant contributions, especially from the top, to level up the streak Brandon King and Johnson Charles.
- George Linde’s Purple Patch: Notably, Linde was recently the top performer in his first T20I, taking 3/25. His control in the middle sections and ability to secure wickets has become a vital asset Aiden Markram.
SA vs WI 2nd T20I, Groups
South Africa: Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Aiden Markram (c), Ryan Rickelton (wk), Dewald Brevis, Rubin Hermann, Jason Smith, George Linde, Corbin Bosch, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, Quinton de Kock, Lungi Ngidi, Ericathan Tribbs, Anrich Jan Tribbs.
West Indies: Brandon King, Johnson Charles (wk), Matthew Forde, Sherfane Rutherford, Roston Chase (c), Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Jason Holder, Romario Shepherd, Akeal Hosein, Jayden Seales, Shamar Joseph, Quentin Sampson, Shai Hope, Gudakesh Motie
SuperSport Park Pitch Report
The surface at SuperSport Park is in stark contrast to the slower deck seen in the series opener at Paarl. Known as one of South Africa’s fastest and busiest tracks, this course is a bowler’s paradise, offering significant carry and zip, especially with the new ball. While the extra bounce can be a problem on early shots, the Highveld’s high elevation means the ball travels more in the thin air, making it a ‘sixer’ place once a pitch is established.
Statistically, pace bowlers have historically dominated here, accounting for around 80% of wickets taken in T20Is at this venue, while spinners often struggle for rhythm. With a first-innings average of 176 (and recent trends approaching 190+), fans can expect a high-scoring thriller.
Also READ: South Africa registered a record win over West Indies in the T20I series opener at Paarl
Supersport Park Stats & Records
- Total T20I Matches: 19
- Matches won in first innings: 9
- Matches won in bowling: 9
- Average 1st Shot Score: 176
- Average 2nd Shot Score: 161
- Highest total recorded: 259/4 (18.5 Ovs) for South Africa vs West Indies
- Lowest Overall Record: 100/10 (12.2 Overs) South Africa vs Pakistan
- Highest Score Pursued: 259/4 (18.5 Ovs) for South Africa vs West Indies
- Lowest score defended: 126/5 (10 Overs) Sri Lanka vs South Africa
