South Africa vs Afghanistan, 13th Match, Group D

As the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 progresses, the 13th Match in Group D between South Africa and Afghanistan at Narendra Modi Stadium promises to be a riveting contest. South Africa enters this game on the back of a solid recent record in T20 cricket, showcasing a balanced team with power hitters and disciplined bowlers. Their pace attack, spearheaded by young fast bowlers who have consistently taken wickets in powerplays and middle overs, provides them with a significant edge. On the batting front, South Africa relies heavily on experienced players known for their ability to anchor innings while accelerating towards the end. Afghanistan, known for their formidable spin attack led by world-class spinners, will look to exploit the subcontinental conditions at Narendra Modi Stadium. With exciting young batsmen who play aggressive cricket, Afghanistan can upset any team on their day, particularly on pitches that assist spin. Their challenge will be to maintain consistency in their bowling and batting order. The head-to-head record favors South Africa, but Afghanistan’s recent rise in world cricket and key performances from players like Rashid Khan and the young batting talent have narrowed the gap substantially. Strategically, South Africa will aim to neutralize Afghanistan’s spin threat early on, while Afghanistan will likely look to restrict runs upfront and take wickets to put pressure. Taking all factors into consideration — form, conditions, squad depth, and tactical strengths — South Africa has a slight upper hand, but Afghanistan's potential to cause upsets keeps this match finely balanced. #### AI suggested match winner South Africa: 57%, Afghanistan: 43%

If South Africa bats first on this pitch known for its balanced nature, they can be expected to post a total around 165-175 runs. Their powerful middle order and ability to capitalize in the death overs will be crucial in crossing the 170-run mark. Conversely, if Afghanistan bats first, they might target a similar range, between 160-170, backed by their spin-friendly conditions and aggressive batting lineup that can accelerate effectively. The pitch offers a relatively even contest, so both teams will aim for totals in the mid to high 160s to put scoreboard pressure on the chasing side.

The Narendra Modi Stadium pitch traditionally offers a balanced contest for batsmen and bowlers alike, with consistent bounce and slight assistance to spinners as the game progresses. The average first-innings score in T20 matches here hovers around 165, with teams batting first winning approximately 55% of the matches, indicating a slight advantage for the side setting the target. Weather on February 11 is expected to be clear and dry with temperatures around 28°C, ideal conditions for cricket. Best bowler on this ground from the two teams is Rashid Khan with multiple impactful spells showcasing his economy and wicket-taking abilities. The top batsman is Quinton de Kock, who has an exceptional strike rate and several half-centuries here. The best individual performance was by Rahmanullah Gurbaz from Afghanistan, who once scored a blistering 78 off 45 balls, setting the tone for a formidable total.

Matches Played	South Africa Wins	Afghanistan Wins
8	5	3

Team Recent Performance

Team	Last 5 Matches (W-L)
South Africa	3 Wins - 2 Losses
Afghanistan	2 Wins - 3 Losses

Quinton de Kock: South Africa’s wicketkeeper-batsman has been in fine form, combining consistency with explosive hitting, crucial at the top of the order.

Keshav Maharaj: An experienced spinner, Maharaj has bowled well on subcontinental pitches, adept at picking wickets in middle overs and restricting runs.

Anrich Nortje: The pace spearhead offers pace and precision, particularly effective with the new ball and in death overs.

Rashid Khan: Afghanistan's premier spinner and captain, Rashid continues to baffle batsmen worldwide with his variations and economic spells.

Rahmanullah Gurbaz: A dynamic opener, Gurbaz has gained momentum recently with aggressive starts and valuable contributions under pressure.

Mujeeb Ur Rahman: A crafty spinner with the ability to keep runs in check and pick crucial wickets, especially in powerplay and middle overs.