Star wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock was reminded of South Africa's T20 World Cup 2024 final heartbreak ahead of their crucial Super 8 clash against India, which is slated to be played on February 21. Two years after that heartbreaking night in Barbados, the Proteas find themselves facing the same opponent in a remarkably similar position. Both teams have arrived at this stage of the T20 World Cup 2026 with perfect, unbeaten records, adding a layer of psychological intensity to this weekend's heavyweight clash.
We tried to forget the 2024 final: Quinton de Kock
The sting of that 2024 loss remains a prominent narrative, with many wondering if the memory acts as a burden or a motivator for the South African squad. During the pre-match press conference at the Narendra Modi Stadium, the veteran wicketkeeper-batter was asked about the emotional weight of that previous final and how it influences their mindset heading into this rematch.
"Honestly, we tried to forget the 2024 final. We went home, and we didn't speak about it," de Kock said at the presser.
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South Africa's chance at glory
South Africa enter the T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8s with a clear mission, to avenge their agonising seven-run loss to India in the 2024 final. This time, the Proteas are leaning on their 'Gen-Next' stars, including Dewald Brevis and Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs, who are eager to make their mark. However, veteran core of Quinton de Kock, David Miller, and Anrich Nortje are still around the squad, providing essential experience as they aim to peak at the perfect moment.
The journey since that 2024 heartbreak has been a transitional one. With the retirement of middle-order powerhouse Heinrich Klaasen, the burden of power-hitting has shifted to the younger brigade. These rising stars are being guided by the experienced trio of de Kock, Miller, and captain Aiden Markram. Despite a period of inconsistency, this lineup remains a formidable threat, capable of outplaying any team. Notably, the Proteas carry significantly less psychological baggage this year, having finally shed the 'Chokers' tag following their historic World Test Championship (WTC) victory at Lord's in June 2025.
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Statistically, however, the path to the 2026 World Cup has been rocky. Since their runner-up finish in 2024, South Africa have struggled for consistency, winning just 12 of their 32 T20I matches. Their away form has been a particular concern; they haven't secured a series victory on foreign soil since that night in Barbados. Across 11 total series, they have managed only two wins, both of which occurred in familiar home conditions.
The Proteas' recent record reflects these challenges, including a 0-3 sweep in the West Indies and a 1-3 home loss to India in late 2024. Their 2025 campaign saw a mix of results, with a loss in the tri-nation final in Zimbabwe and an away series defeat in Australia. Most recently, after another 1-3 loss to India in December 2025, they found some rhythm at home by beating the West Indies 2-1 in February 2026. As they return to Ahmedabad, they will need to translate that home momentum into a winning performance on Indian soil.