Markram leads rout as SA inch closer to semis

For a clash between the only two unbeaten sides at the T20 World Cup, this turned into a stroll in the park for South Africa. Their bowlers dominated West Indies, who staged a recovery to post 176/8, only for South Africa's top-order, led by Aiden Markram, to chase it down with a 9-wicket win.

After Markram chose to bowl, South Africa's pacers exploited extra bounce. Kagiso Rabada, wicketless in his three previous games, removed Shai Hope early. Lungi Ngidi then dismissed Brandon King and Roston Chase, as West Indies slumped to 83/7 despite South Africa dropping three catches in the Powerplay.

A partnership between Jason Holder and Romario Shepherd revived the innings. Holder was dropped on the last ball of the 14th over and made South Africa pay, helping add a quick fifty. Shepherd struck his first T20I fifty, and a costly 23-run 18th over from Marco Jansen boosted West Indies to 176/8. Holder was run out for 49.

South Africa's chase began explosively, with Markram and Quinton de Kock racing to 69/0 in the Powerplay. De Kock attacked Gudakesh Motie before holing out to Holder for 47. Ryan Rickelton joined Markram and maintained the momentum, with Markram reaching a fluent fifty.

West Indies' bowlers lacked penetration, and though they created a couple of tough chances, both were dropped. At 109/1 after 10 overs, the result was inevitable. Rickelton finished 45*, and Markram sealed the win with a loft over Holder's head, remaining unbeaten on 82 to claim Player of the Match.

Brief scores:
West Indies 176/8 in 20 overs (Romario Shepherd 52*, Jason Holder 49; Lungi Ngidi 3-30, Kagiso Rabada 2-22) lost to South Africa 177/1 in 16.1 overs (Aiden Markram 82*, Quinton de Kock 47, Ryan Rickelton 45*) by 9 wickets.