South Africa now holds the world records for highest successful run chases in both one-day international and T20 international cricket. The country accomplished the 259-run target against West Indies on March 26 in Centurion to record the highest-ever successful T20I run chase. The team had recorded the highest-ever successful run chase in ODI cricket on March 12, 2006, when they chased down a 435-run target against Australia.
After yielding 258 with the ball, South Africa delivered a stirring run chase, led by a maiden T20I ton from Quinton de Kock. Scoring 102 in the first six overs, the highest score by any team in the Powerplay in T20Is, de Kock and Reeza Hendricks began South Africa’s innings in style. The opening stand of 152 came off just 10.5 overs as South Africa suddenly turned into favourites to win the game.
Earlier, West Indies, powered by a record 39-ball ton from Johnson Charles, had made their highest score in T20Is.
The previous record for the highest successful run chase in T20Is was held by Bulgaria against Serbia in 2022, when the former chased down 243 in 19.4 overs.
