South Africa’s emphatic win not only handed co-hosts India their first defeat of the tournament, but reinforced the growing belief that this Proteas side may finally have what it takes to lift a maiden T20 World Cup title.
Red-Hot T20 Form
South Africa entered the Super 8s riding a wave of momentum. A dramatic victory over Afghanistan, decided after two Super Over, highlighted their composure under pressure. Earlier wins against New Zealand, UAE and Canada underlined their consistency and firepower.
That form carried seamlessly into the Super 8 opener against India, where they delivered one of their most complete performances of the tournament.
Proteas Test captain Temba Bavuma, currently in India working as a commentator, had already sensed something special building within the squad.
“The Proteas T20 form has been good. From a batting point of view the guys are smashing them. The bowling combinations have been good. The coach and captain have options at their disposal," Bavuma told SportsBoom.co.za.
He believes there is a renewed sense of purpose within the squad.
“There seems to be a strong desire and motivation for the guys to do something special for the country.”
According to Bavuma, it is not just form but mentality that sets this group apart.
“There is confidence, belief and players who are capable to play in the big moments. To some extent, you need luck to go your way. I don’t want to put the markers on the guys, but the title is there for the taking.”
He also pointed to the presence of players who have experienced success at Test level, suggesting that championship pedigree could prove crucial when the pressure intensifies.
If the win over India is anything to go by, that belief is translating into performance.
Quinton de Kock Brings Rejuvenated Energy
A major boost for the Proteas has been the return of Quinton de Kock to white-ball cricket. After stepping away from international cricket, the experienced wicketkeeper-batter has seamlessly slotted back into the squad.
Bavuma was full of praise for his teammate.
“Quinton has come back in and has fitted in like a glove. There wasn’t really a question whether he still has it within him. He has been phenomenal since he got back in the team.”
Beyond his performances with the bat, De Kock’s presence has added calm and maturity.
“He has been good not just as a player, but also his presence within the team. The players have enjoyed having him in the team, the input he has given and his relaxed manner.”
Bavuma admitted he understands the emotions that come with stepping away from the game.
“I look at myself as well, I’m not playing and get to watch the game… I miss it a lot. I can only imagine how Quinny felt at the time.”
Australia’s Shock Exit
One of the tournament’s biggest surprises was the early elimination of the Australia national cricket team, who failed to progress past the pool stages after a defeat to Zimbabwe.
Bavuma admitted the result was unexpected.
“Definitely it was a shock to have Australia exit. The name itself carries a certain gravitas and weight. You expect Australia to be amongst those teams in the knockout stages.”
He noted that Australia were without their experienced bowling trio — Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc — who stepped away from T20 internationals.
Zimbabwe Embrace the Underdog Tag
Zimbabwe’s unbeaten run into the Super 8s has been one of the stories of the tournament. Victories over Australia and Sri Lanka showcased their growth on the international stage.
Bavuma credited head coach Justin Sammons and senior players such as Sikandar Raza and Graeme Cremer for leading the charge.
“Zimbabwe have commanded their spot in the Super 8 by beating Australia and Sri Lanka. It just shows the growth they have made.”
He also dismissed the notion of labeling Zimbabwe a “small team.”
“Some of the guys don’t enjoy being called associate teams or smaller teams but they have seriously stepped up and pushed the so-called big teams. Zimbabwe have played in these ICC events, so I wouldn’t exactly call them a small team.”
A Super 8 “Pool of Death”
With South Africa now off the mark in dominant fashion after dismantling India, the Super 8 group promises high-stakes cricket where every match could feel like a knockout.
Bavuma had questioned the balance of the draw but acknowledged the excitement it creates.
“Yeah it’s a bit weird. They should’ve spread the teams a bit. I guess there is some sort of logic behind it, maybe on a commercial point of view. But it sets up for an exciting group and every game will be a knockout game.”
And as for who will emerge victorious?
“I would like to think the winner will come out of that group… don’t ask me who.”
After a 76-run statement win to open the Super 8s, South Africa have ensured they are no longer just part of the conversation — they are setting the tone for it.
