Stats: Jason Holder-Romario Shepherd record highest-ever 8th-wicket partnership in T20Is during West Indies vs South Africa

The T20 World Cup Super Eights clash between South Africa and the West Indies at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, on Thursday, February 26, produced a heart-throbbing partnership between Jason Holder and Romario Shepherd. After adding 89 runs for the eighth wicket, the duo now has the record for the highest-ever partnership at that position in the shortest format of international cricket.

Highest partnership for 8th wicket in T20Is

The all-rounder duo received massive praise from their South African counterpart, Corbin Bosch, as the Caribbeans posted 176 for 8 at the end of 20 overs in the all-important match. Bosch expressed that there was a positive approach by the Windies batters in the first innings, and a similar process will have to be followed by the Proteas if they are to move a step closer to semi-final qualification. 

"It's a good cricketing wicket. Romario and Holder showed that there are runs out there, they started with intent so if we can also do that, we can chase it down. I was happy to contribute, the guys at the top made my life easier. I can definitely thank them. It's a good wicket but it was a little bit tacky early but the ball came on nicely later on," Bosch said during the mid-innings break.

A semi-final spot comes hard

The race for making it to the top four has gotten into a tricky position. If Aiden Markram & Co. beat the West Indies, they will have almost confirmed their berth. On the other hand, a win for the Caribbeans will keep all of India, South Africa, and the West Indies wide open from Group 1 to make it to the business end of the twenty-team tournament.