In a stunning display of lower-order firepower, South Africa’s Marco Jansen etched his name into T20 World Cup history during the 2026 semi-final against New Zealand in Kolkata. Batting at number seven, Jansen smashed an unbeaten 55 off just 30 balls, becoming the first South African to score a fifty in a knockout match from position seven or lower.
Jansen’s explosive knock included five towering sixes and two boundaries, propelling South Africa from a precarious position to a competitive total of 169 for 8. This feat also marks him as only the second player globally to achieve this in T20 World Cup knockouts, following Australia’s Michael Hussey, who bludgeoned 60 not out off 24 balls against Pakistan in the 2010 semi-final.
South Africa, inserted to bat after losing the toss, crumbled early. They lost two quick wickets in the second over, and despite a gritty 43-run stand for the third wicket between Aiden Markram (18) and Dewald Brevis (34), the middle order collapsed. At 10.2 overs, they were reeling at 77 for 5.
Enter Jansen, who forged a crucial 73-run partnership off 47 balls with Tristan Stubbs (29 off 24). This rescue act turned the game on its head, giving South Africa a fighting total. New Zealand’s bowlers struck back with Matt Henry, Cole McConchie, and Rachin Ravindra claiming two wickets each, while Lockie Ferguson and James Neesham picked one apiece.
Jansen’s innings not only salvaged the innings but also redefined what’s possible from the lower order in high-stakes cricket, setting a new benchmark for T20 World Cup knockouts.