The rivalry between the South Africa National Cricket Team and the West Indies Cricket Team is a fascinating blend of power, pace, and flair. From the dominance of West Indies in earlier decades to South Africa’s rise as a modern powerhouse, this rivalry has delivered exciting cricket across all formats.
Head-to-Head Record
Team
Matches Played
Won
Lost
Tied
No Result
Highest Team Score
Lowest Team Score
South Africa
30
15
15
0
0
259
108
West Indies
30
15
15
0
0
258
114
Recent South Africa Team Vs West Indies
Tournament
Venue
Date
South Africa Score
West Indies Score
Result
Series
ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 (Super 8)
Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
Feb 26, 2026
177/1 (16.1 overs)
176/8 (20 overs)
South Africa won by 9 wkts (23 balls rem)
ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026
Bilateral T20I (3rd)
The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg
Jan 31, 2026
118/6 (10 overs, target 125)
114/3 (10 overs)
West Indies won by 6 runs (DLS method)
West Indies tour of South Africa 2025/26
Bilateral T20I (2nd)
SuperSport Park, Centurion
Jan 29, 2026
225/3 (17.3 overs)
221/4 (20 overs)
South Africa won by 7 wkts
West Indies tour of South Africa 2025/26
Bilateral T20I (1st)
Boland Park, Paarl
Jan 27, 2026
176/1 (17.5 overs)
173/7 (20 overs)
South Africa won by 9 wkts (13 balls rem)
West Indies tour of South Africa 2025/26
Bilateral T20I (3rd)
Brian Lara Stadium, Tarouba
Aug 28, 2024
108/4 (13 overs)
116/2 (9.2 overs)
West Indies won by 8 wkts (DLS)
South Africa in West Indies T20I 2024
Bilateral T20I (2nd)
Brian Lara Stadium, Tarouba
Aug 26, 2024
149 (19.4 overs)
179/6 (20 overs)
West Indies won by 30 runs
South Africa in West Indies T20I 2024
Bilateral T20I (1st)
Brian Lara Stadium, Tarouba
Aug 24, 2024
174/7 (20 overs)
176/3 (17.5 overs)
West Indies won by 7 wkts
South Africa in West Indies T20I 2024
Format-wise Performance Stats
Category
South Africa Wins
West Indies Wins
Avg Run Rate (SA)
Avg Run Rate (WI)
Highest Chase Success
Notable Trends
Overall T20Is
15
15
8.55
8.76
SA: 259/4
Neck-and-neck thriller
Batting First
7
12
~8.0
~9.0
–
WI stronger when setting targets
Batting Second (Chasing)
8
3
~9.5
~8.2
SA: Multiple 170+
SA excels in high-pressure chases
Top Performers in Matches
Rank
Player
Team
Runs
Highest Score
Strike Rate
1
Quinton de Kock
South Africa
642+
141
High
2
Aiden Markram
South Africa
322+
82* (2026 WC)
Explosive
3
Reeza Hendricks
South Africa
527
N/A
Consistent
4
Nicholas Pooran
West Indies
262+
N/A
Aggressive
5
Shai Hope / Rovman Powell
West Indies
200+
128
Impactful
A Rivalry of Two Eras
The South Africa vs West Indies rivalry reflects two different eras of cricket dominance. West Indies were once the most feared team in world cricket, especially during the 1970s and 1980s, with their legendary fast bowlers and destructive batters. South Africa, after returning to international cricket in the 1990s, quickly established itself as a consistent and competitive side. The stats show South Africa holding an edge in overall head-to-head encounters, particularly in recent years. However, West Indies’ legacy and ability to produce match-winning performances keep the rivalry alive. This clash represents both history and evolution in cricket.
Overall Stats
Matches
South Africa Wins
West Indies Wins
Draw/No Result
Head-to-Head
150+
Higher
Competitive
Several
Test Cricket Stats and Long-Format Battles
Test matches between South Africa and West Indies have showcased some classic contests. South Africa has generally dominated in the longer format, thanks to its strong pace attack and disciplined batting lineup. West Indies, while not as dominant as in their golden era, have still managed to produce competitive performances. The stats highlight South Africa’s advantage in total Test wins, but also show that West Indies have secured important victories, especially in home conditions. Drawn matches have also been part of their encounters, reflecting closely fought battles in certain series.
Category
South Africa
West Indies
Total Wins
20+
10+
Home Wins
Very Strong
Strong
Away Wins
Strong
Limited
Series Wins
More
Few
Draw Matches
Several
Several
One Day International (ODI) Stats Overview
ODI cricket between these two teams has been highly competitive, with both sides delivering strong performances. South Africa has often been one of the most consistent ODI teams, while West Indies have relied on their natural flair and power hitting. The stats indicate South Africa holding a clear advantage in overall ODI wins. However, West Indies have produced memorable performances, including big wins in crucial matches. High-scoring games and exciting chases are common in this format, making it a key part of the rivalry.
Category
South Africa
West Indies
Matches Won
45+
30+
Highest Score
400+
380+
Successful Chases
Many
Many
Win Percentage
Higher
Competitive
ICC Matches
Several
Several
T20 International Stats and Power-Hitting Battles
T20 Internationals have added a new dimension to the South Africa vs West Indies rivalry. West Indies, known for their explosive batting and success in T20 World Cups, have been particularly strong in this format. South Africa, with a balanced team and consistent performances, has also been highly competitive. The stats show a closely fought contest, with West Indies often having an edge due to their power hitters. Matches in this format are usually high-scoring and entertaining, featuring big sixes and dramatic finishes.
Category
South Africa
West Indies
Matches Won
10+
12+
Highest Score
220+
230+
Strike Rate
High
Very High
Best Bowling
Strong
Competitive
Recent Form
Competitive
Strong
Modern Era Trends and Team Evolution
In the modern era, South Africa has maintained its status as a strong and consistent team across formats. West Indies, while not as dominant as before, have shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in T20 cricket. The stats from recent years show South Africa having a stronger record overall, but West Indies continue to challenge them with their unpredictable style. This evolution reflects the changing dynamics of international cricket, where both teams are adapting to new formats and strategies.
Modern Stats
South Africa
West Indies
Recent Wins
Higher
Competitive
Team Strength
Strong
Variable
Young Talent
Growing
Emerging
Consistency
Proven
Inconsistent
Conclusion
The South Africa National Cricket Team vs West Indies Cricket Team rivalry is a compelling mix of history, power, and modern competition. While South Africa holds a statistical advantage in most formats, West Indies’ flair and unpredictability ensure that every match remains exciting. As both teams continue to evolve, this rivalry will keep delivering thrilling encounters and memorable moments for cricket fans around the world.