South Africa vs New Zealand Prediction & Match Preview – T20 World Cup 2026 Semi-Final

South Africa and New Zealand open the T20 World Cup 2026 knockouts at Eden Gardens. South Africa come in on the back of a five-wicket win over Zimbabwe, in which Kwena Maphaka (2 for 21) and Corbin Bosch (two wickets) kept Zimbabwe to 153 after South Africa were put into the field. Dewald Brevis then hit 42 off 18 balls, Ryan Rickelton made 31 off 22 and George Linde finished unbeaten on 30 as the target of 154 was reached in 17.5 overs.

New Zealand arrive after a four-wicket defeat to England. Batting first they made 159, with Glenn Phillips scoring 39 off 28, Tim Seifert 35 off 25 and Finn Allen 29. England chased it down in 19.3 overs; Rachin Ravindra was the pick of the bowlers with 3 for 19, and Lockie Ferguson conceded only 14 in two overs.

Both sides can hit hard at the top of the order, so the powerplay is likely to be decisive. In our preview New Zealand are the narrow favourites, but South Africa’s depth with bat and ball means little separates the sides.

Probable playing XI

Pitch report

Eden Gardens tends to offer a true surface with even bounce and a quick outfield, so stroke-makers can play freely once set. The new ball may swing a little in the powerplay, after which the pitch settles and the track can slow, bringing spinners into the middle overs. Pace bowlers will rely on variations. Teams often aim for around 175 or more here in a high-pressure knockout.

Weather

Evening conditions at Eden Gardens on 4 March look warm and pleasant, with about 26–27°C at the start, easing to roughly 24°C later. Skies should stay mostly clear, rain is not expected and humidity may sit around 60–70%, with a light breeze possibly helping the bowlers.

Expected scores

• 1st innings: 165–180
• 2nd innings: 155–170

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