In a thrilling semifinal clash at Eden Gardens, South Africa’s Marco Jansen and Tristan Stubbs forged an unforgettable partnership that propelled their team and etched their names in T20 World Cup history. Facing New Zealand on Wednesday, the duo stitched together a vital 73-run stand off just 47 balls for the sixth wicket after South Africa slumped to 77/5.
This heroic effort not only rescued the Proteas from a precarious position but also marked the second-highest partnership for the sixth wicket or lower in T20 World Cup playoffs. Jansen, unbeaten on a blistering 55 off 30 balls studded with five sixes and two fours, led the charge, pushing the score to 169/8. Stubbs complemented him brilliantly with 29 off 24, while Dewald Brevis chipped in with 34 earlier.
The innings showcased South Africa’s lower-order firepower, setting a new team record for the highest sixth-wicket or lower partnership in T20 cricket. Batting first after losing the toss, they posted 169/8, a total defended valiantly. New Zealand’s Matt Henry, Cole McConchie, and Rachin Ravindra claimed two wickets each, with Lockie Ferguson and James Neesham grabbing one apiece.
This stand surpasses several iconic partnerships. The top spot belongs to Australia’s Marcus Stoinis and Matthew Wade, who notched an unbroken 81 against Pakistan in Dubai 2021. Sri Lanka’s Angelo Mathews and Kumar Sangakkara follow with 68* in the 2009 final at Lord’s against Pakistan. Australia’s George Bailey and Pat Cummins (54* vs England, 2016 final) and Michael Hussey-Mitchell Johnson (53* vs Pakistan, 2010 semifinal) round out the top five.
As South Africa eyes the final on March 8, Jansen and Stubbs’ resilience under pressure has ignited hopes of World Cup glory, proving that heroes can emerge from the tail end in the game’s shortest format.