KOLKATA: In a thrilling first semifinal of the T20 World Cup 2026 at Eden Gardens, South Africa posted 169/8 against New Zealand, with all-rounder Marco Jansen smashing an unbeaten 55 to set a challenging 170-run target. New Zealand, opting to bowl after winning the toss, struck early blows, dismissing Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton for just 12 runs in the second over. Captain Heinrich Klaasen and Dewald Brevis then steadied the innings with a 43-run stand for the third wicket, but Klaasen fell for 18 at 55.
The middle order crumbled as David Miller and Brevis departed at 77, leaving South Africa teetering at a precarious position. It seemed they might struggle to cross 130. Enter Jansen, who partnered with Tristan Stubbs for a crucial 73-run sixth-wicket alliance, propelling the score past 150. Ferguson broke through by removing Stubbs for 29 off 24 balls.
Jansen remained unfazed, unleashing two fours and five sixes in his 30-ball knock, ensuring South Africa reached a competitive total. Corbin Bosch (2) and Kagiso Rabada (0) fell quickly, with Keshav Maharaj unbeaten on 1. New Zealand’s Matt Henry led the bowling with 2/34, supported by Kyle Jamieson (2/9 in 1 over), Lockie Ferguson (1/29), Jimmy Neesham (1/42), and Rachin Ravindra (2/29). Now, New Zealand must chase 170 to book their final spot in this high-stakes clash.