NEW DELHI: South Africa captain Aiden Markram is set for a fascinating tactical duel with New Zealand skipper Mitchell Santner in what promises to be a gripping first semi-final of the T20 World Cup on Wednesday. It is not often that captains from both sides double up as their team’s most influential performers, but the Markram-Santner face-off could keep a near-capacity Eden Gardens crowd on edge throughout.
The ICC rivalry between South Africa and New Zealand peaked during the unforgettable 2015 ODI World Cup semi-final, when the Black Caps edged out the Proteas in a dramatic finish, leaving stars like Dale Steyn and AB de Villiers heartbroken. That contest became symbolic of South Africa’s struggles in knockout matches.
However, this South African side appears different. Under coach Shukri Conrad, they have evolved into a formidable outfit, highlighted by their World Test Championship triumph last year. Though a major white-ball trophy still eludes them, the old “chokers” label no longer defines this team.
At the heart of the contest are the two captains — understated yet astute leaders who have let their performances do the talking. Markram has been explosive at the top, striking at over 175 and amassing 268 runs, often dismantling bowling attacks in the powerplay. Santner, in contrast, has applied the brakes brilliantly, conceding runs at a miserly economy rate of 6.35 while keeping opposition batters under constant pressure.
South Africa boast a fearsome batting line-up featuring Markram, Quinton de Kock, Dewald Brevis, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, David Miller and Marco Jansen — a unit capable of overwhelming any bowling attack. Their depth and power-hitting ability make them a daunting prospect.
New Zealand, though, bring their own strengths to the table. Santner has marshalled his spin resources smartly, with Rachin Ravindra (nine wickets at an economy of under seven), Glenn Phillips and Cole McConchie operating effectively in tandem. Barring India, this is arguably the strongest spin attack the Proteas have encountered in the tournament, though England’s Liam Dawson and Rehan Ahmed also posed challenges.
One concern for the Black Caps could be the absence of a dominant wrist-spinner. Ish Sodhi has not quite hit his stride in the limited opportunities he has had so far, and that could be an area South Africa look to exploit.
The Eden Gardens surface is expected to be a batting-friendly one. South Africa may prefer chasing, particularly against a New Zealand side that played its Super Eight matches on slower Sri Lankan pitches. A truer surface in Kolkata could encourage aggressive strokeplay from the likes of Finn Allen, Tim Seifert, Glenn Phillips and Daryl Mitchell, who might eye a 200-plus total to put pressure on the Proteas.
Much will depend on how South Africa’s Lungi Ngidi uses his variations — especially his slower balls, wide yorkers and leg-cutters — on a flat track. For New Zealand, Lockie Ferguson’s opening spell could prove decisive in setting the tone of the contest.
South Africa vs New Zealand T20 World Cup semifinal: Live streaming details
When is the South Africa vs New Zealand T20 World Cup semifinal match?
The South Africa vs New Zealand T20 World Cup semifinal match will be played on Wednesday, March 4.
What time will the South Africa vs New Zealand T20 World Cup semifinal match be played?
The match will start at 7:00 pm IST, with the toss scheduled for 6:30 pm IST.
Where will the South Africa vs New Zealand T20 World Cup semifinal match be played?
The South Africa vs New Zealand T20 World Cup semifinal match will be held at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
Where can we watch the live telecast of the South Africa vs New Zealand T20 World Cup semifinal match?
The match will be broadcast live on the Star Sports Network.
Where can we follow the South Africa vs New Zealand T20 World Cup semifinal match online?
Live updates and coverage will be available on TimesofIndia.com.
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South Africa vs New Zealand T20 World Cup semifinal: Likely XIs
South Africa (Likely XI): Aiden Markram(c), Quinton de Kock(w), Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, George Linde, Corbin Bosch, Anrich Nortje, Kwena Maphaka, Lungi Ngidi
New Zealand (Likely XI): Tim Seifert(w), Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner(c), Cole McConchie, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson
South Africa vs New Zealand T20 World Cup semifinal: Squads
South Africa Squad: Aiden Markram(c), Quinton de Kock(w), Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, George Linde, Anrich Nortje, Kwena Maphaka, Jason Smith
New Zealand Squad: Tim Seifert(w), Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner(c), Cole McConchie, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson, James Neesham, Jacob Duffy, Kyle Jamieson, Devon Conway
