South Africa’s dream run meets New Zealand’s resolve in the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal at Eden Gardens on March 4—a battle primed for drama. The Proteas, sole undefeated side, clinched semis with 7/7 wins, marking fifth such entry.
Key performers: Aiden Markram (268 runs@175 SR/7), Ryan Rickelton (228@171), Quinton de Kock (171). Bowling: Lungi Ngidi (12 wkts/6), Corbin Bosch (11), Keshav Maharaj’s spin. New Zealand’s Super 8: 1 win, Pakistan no-result, England loss by 4 wkts. Tim Seifert (216@157/6), Rachin Ravindra (115 runs+9 wkts/7).
Proteas lead T20 H2H 12-7; World Cup 5-0. Eden pitch: batter-friendly bounce, 162 first inns avg, 143 second.
AccuWeather: Sunny, 33°C max/20°C min, no rain. Unbeaten SA eyes history, Kiwis hunt upset—expect fireworks.