In the first semi-final match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, New Zealand beat South Africa by nine wickets at the Eden Gardens Stadium in Kolkata.
Chasing 170, New Zealand’s chase was nothing short of spectacular, highlighted by a remarkable knock from Finn Allen (100*). His undefeated performance at Eden Gardens absolutely demolished South Africa’s bowling attack, hitting 10 fours and eight sixes in a brave onslaught. Allen hit his half-century in just 19 balls and closed the game in style, securing both the victory and his century in the same over. Alongside him, Tim Seifert (58) added 50 runs to a 117-run opening stand in 9.1 overs. Even after Seifert was dismissed by Kagiso Rabada, New Zealand cruised to victory with 7.1 overs to spare.
South Africa struggled in their first innings after being asked to bat first, falling to 77-5 after 11 overs. Early dismissals of Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton put them on the back foot, while skipper Aiden Markram failed to convert his start. Tristan Stubbs (29) sought to rebuild, but it was Marco Jansen (55*) who supplied the late spark with his unbroken innings, blasting two fours and five sixes to take the total to 169-8, which was competitive on paper but fell short considering the conditions.
Earlier, NZ’s bowlers laid the foundation by restricting South Africa to 169-8. Spinners Rachin Ravindra and Cole McConchie applied early pressure with two wickets each, dismantling the top order. Ravindra removed Aiden Markram and David Miller in quick succession, tightening the grip. Matt Henry marked his return with figures of 2-34, while the disciplined attack ensured South Africa never fully recovered despite late resistance.
Defending 169 proved far too little against New Zealand’s aggressive approach. Apart from Kagiso Rabada’s wicket of Seifert, the bowling unit struggled for breakthroughs and containment.
With this win, the Kiwis have qualified for the final and will take on the winner of semi-final 2.
Scorecard:
South Africa: 169/8, Overs 20, Marco Jansen 55*, Cole McConchie 2/9
New Zealand: 173/1, Overs 12.5, Finn Allen 100*, Kagiso Rabada 1/28
