Rashid Khan Rahmanullah Gurbaz for Afghanistan in T20 World Cup 2026. Image Credits: X
In a significant development, Afghanistan's campaign has been hit by an off-field setback after the team's performance analyst, KC Rama Subramanian, suffered a mild heart attack in New Delhi amid the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026.
The incident took place on Wednesday when Subramanian complained of chest pain; he was immediately taken to Fortis Hospital in the capital for medical attention (as reported by Gaurav Gupta of the Times of India).
It is important to mention that doctors conducted tests and later performed an angioplasty procedure. According to sources close to the team, the procedure was successful, and he is now out of danger.
Afghanistan analyst suffers heart attack amid T20 World Cup
Subramanian is currently recovering well under medical supervision. The quick response from the team management and medical staff ensured that he received timely treatment.
KC Rama Subramanian is considered an important member of the Afghanistan support staff. He has played a key role in analysing team performance and preparing strategies for matches.
Apart from his work with the Afghanistan team, he also serves as the director of Sportalytics Private Limited.
“Yes, the Afghanistan team's performance analyst experienced chest pain yesterday. He had suffered a mild heart attack and was taken to Fortis hospital. He underwent angioplasty and is out of danger and doing better now,” the source told the newspaper (Mumbai Mirror).
Afghanistan's tough luck in T20 World Cup 2026
Afghanistan faced a historic double Super Over against South Africa in Ahmedabad on Wednesday.
Batting first, South Africa posted a strong total of 187 for 6 in 20 overs. Ryan Rickelton scored 61 runs, while Quinton de Kock added 59, giving their team a solid foundation.
In reply, Afghanistan looked in control thanks to a brilliant 84 runs from 42 balls by Rahmanullah Gurbaz. The match went down to the final over, where two no-balls from Kagiso Rabada added to the tension.
Afghanistan were eventually bowled out for 187 in 19.5 overs, tying the game and forcing a Super Over.
The drama did not end there. In the first Super Over, Lungi Ngidi conceded 17 runs as Azmatullah Omarzai smashed two sixes and a four.
South Africa needed a big finish, and Tristan Stubbs delivered by hitting a six off the final ball to tie the Super Over and force a second one.
In the second Super Over, Stubbs and David Miller attacked Omarzai, smashing three sixes to post 24 runs. Gurbaz once again fought bravely, hitting three consecutive sixes in the chase.
However, he was dismissed on the final ball, ending Afghanistan’s hopes as they fell short by four runs.
Afghanistan’s journey in T20 World Cup 2026 so far
Afghanistan had faced tough luck this season, having suffered a five-wicket defeat against the New Zealand in Chennai. With two losses in two matches, they are currently at the bottom of Group D, while New Zealand, South Africa and UAE sit comfortably above them.
Led by captain Rashid Khan, Afghanistan must now win their remaining matches against the United Arab Emirates in Delhi on February 16 and the Canada in Chennai on February 19.
