New Zealand secured a thrilling 9-wicket victory over South Africa in the T20 World Cup 1st semi-final at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on March 4, 2026. The match, which saw New Zealand bowl out South Africa for 170 in 20 overs, showcased their dominance with a clinical display of fast bowling and strategic batting. South Africa’s innings began with a strong powerplay, scoring 48 runs in the first 6 overs, but their momentum faltered as New Zealand’s bowlers, led by Rachin Ravindra and Matt Henry, tightened the grip. Key wickets fell to Henry, who claimed a hat-trick in the 19th over, dismissing Daryl Mitchell, Kyle Abbott, and Kyle Meré in quick succession. By the end of their innings, South Africa were all out for 170, with Mitchell Jansen top-scoring with 55 off 48 balls. New Zealand’s response was equally impressive. They posted 170 in 12.1 overs, with Tim Seifert (58 off 33 balls) and Finn Allen (100 off 33 balls) anchoring the innings. Allen’s aggressive strokeplay, including 10 fours and 8 sixes, was pivotal, while Ravindra’s disciplined bowling limited South Africa’s scoring opportunities. The Kiwis’ ability to adapt to the conditions and execute their game plan under pressure was evident throughout. The match highlighted New Zealand’s resilience, with Allen reflecting on their approach: “We were positive, didn’t have Plan B.” South Africa’s captain, Quinton de Kock, lamented their powerplay struggles, echoing Du Plessis’s earlier warning: “You lose the powerplay, you more often than not lose the game.” New Zealand’s victory ensured their progression to the final, with Henry’s heroics and Allen’s batting brilliance marking a defining moment in the tournament. The result underscored the Kiwis’ depth and composure in high-stakes cricket, setting the stage for an eagerly anticipated final.#new_zealand #quinton_de_kock #south_africa #t20_world_cup #eden_gardens
