Kolkata, March 5: South Africa has set a target of 170 runs for New Zealand in the first semifinal of the T20 World Cup 2026. All-rounder Marco Jansen was the standout performer for South Africa, scoring 55 runs.
In a match held at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, New Zealand won the toss and opted to bowl first. South Africa’s innings got off to a rocky start, losing Quinton de Kock and Reeza Hendricks in the second over for just 12 runs. Captain Aiden Markram and Dewald Brevis attempted to stabilize the innings with a 43-run partnership for the third wicket. However, Markram fell for 18 runs, leaving the team at 55.
The situation worsened as David Miller and Brevis were dismissed at a score of 77, raising concerns that South Africa might struggle to reach 125-130 runs.
A crucial partnership of 73 runs between Tristan Stubbs and Marco Jansen lifted the team’s total to 150. This dangerous duo was broken by Ferguson, who dismissed Stubbs for 29 runs off 24 balls. Following Stubbs’ departure, Corbin Bosch and Kagiso Rabada fell for 2 and 0 runs, respectively. Keshav Maharaj remained not out at 1 run.
Amidst the falling wickets, Marco Jansen played a vital role, scoring an unbeaten 55 runs off 30 balls, including 2 fours and 5 sixes. His performance helped South Africa reach a total of 169 runs for the loss of 8 wickets.
For New Zealand, Matt Henry took 2 wickets for 34 runs in 4 overs, while Cole McConchie also secured 2 wickets for just 9 runs in 1 over. Lockie Ferguson claimed 1 wicket for 29 runs in 4 overs, and Jimmy Neesham took 1 wicket for 42 runs in 3 overs. Rachin Ravindra also contributed with 2 wickets for 29 runs in 4 overs.
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