A record eighth-wicket partnership by Romario Shepherd and Jason Holder helped the West Indies recover from a major collapse to post 176-8 against South Africa in the T20 World Cup Super Eights on Thursday in Ahmedabad.
The pair came together when West Indies were struggling at 83-7 and added 89 runs, setting the highest eighth-wicket stand in T20 international cricket history. Shepherd remained unbeaten on 52 off 37 balls with four sixes, while Holder scored 49 off 31 balls before being run out off the penultimate ball of the innings.
Both teams entered the match with a perfect record, having won all five of their previous T20 World Cup matches. South Africa captain Aiden Markram won the toss and chose to bowl, aiming to restrict the West Indies batting lineup.
The Caribbean side began aggressively, taking 17 runs in the first over bowled by left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj. However, Kagiso Rabada halted the momentum when captain Shai Hope (16) edged to keeper Quinton de Kock.
Shimron Hetmyer was dropped at mid-on by Corbin Bosch, but he lasted only two more deliveries before being caught at midwicket by Maharaj. Lungi Ngidi struck in his first over, removing Brandon King (21) and Roston Chase in quick succession, leaving West Indies at 43-4 after a strong start of 29-0 from two overs.
Ngidi finished with figures of 3-30, Rabada claimed 2-2, and Bosch took 2-31. Despite this early collapse, Shepherd and Holder’s partnership restored stability and gave West Indies a competitive total against South Africa.
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This innings demonstrated the West Indies’ batting depth and resilience under pressure. Their historic partnership ensured they remained strong contenders in the T20 World Cup, showcasing the team’s ability to perform in high-pressure situations.
