The first semi-final of the 2026 T20 World Cup gets underway this evening at 7 PM at Eden Gardens, with South Africa national cricket team taking on the New Zealand national cricket team.
Both sides are still chasing their maiden T20 World Cup title. South Africa reached the final in 2024 but finished as runners-up.
The Proteas have been in dominant form this tournament, winning all their matches played in India and remaining unbeaten so far.
Captain Aiden Markram has been in fine touch with the bat, while New Zealand openers Tim Seifert and Finn Allen have also been among the runs.
However, South Africa’s middle order — featuring Dewald Brevis, David Miller and Tristan Stubbs — has arguably looked stronger.
New Zealand have received a boost with pace bowler Matt Henry rejoining the squad after attending the birth of his second child.
Historically, South Africa have dominated this rivalry in T20 World Cups, winning all five previous meetings against New Zealand. Notably, this will be the first time the two teams clash in a T20 World Cup semi-final.
