New Delhi: South Africa captain Aiden Markram is set for an interesting tactical duel with New Zealand skipper Mitchell Santner in the first semi-final of the T20 World Cup on Wednesday. It's not often that captains from either side emerge as their team's most impressive performers, but a Markram-Santner face-off could keep a near-capacity crowd at Eden Gardens on edge.
The ICC rivalry between South Africa and New Zealand peaked during the unforgettable 2015 ODI World Cup semi-final, when the Black Caps defeated the Proteas in a dramatic finish that saw stars like Dale Steyn and AB de Villiers break out. That competition became symbolic of South Africa's struggle in knockout matches.
However, this South African side looks different. Under the leadership of coach Shukri Conrad, they have developed into a formidable organisation, highlighted by their World Test Championship win last year. Although a major white-ball trophy still eludes them, the old “chokers” label no longer defines this team.
At the center of the competition are two captains – sensible yet shrewd leaders who have created a buzz with their performances. Markram has been explosive at the top, playing innings of over 175 and scoring 268 runs, often destroying the bowling attack in the powerplay. In contrast, Santner has bowled brilliantly and kept the opposition batsmen under constant pressure, giving away runs at a modest economy rate of 6.35.
South Africa have a formidable batting line-up of Markram, Quinton de Kock, Dewald Brewis, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, David Miller and Marco Johnson – a unit capable of beating any bowling attack. His depth and power-hitting ability make him a challenging prospect.
However, New Zealand brings out its strengths. Santner has combined his spin resources cleverly with Rachin Ravindra (nine wickets at an economy of less than seven), Glenn Phillips and Cole McConchie. Barring India, this is probably the Proteas' strongest spin attack in the tournament, although England's Liam Dawson and Rehan Ahmed also posed challenges.
One concern for the Black Caps could be the absence of a key wrist-spinner. Ish Sodhi has not been able to find his rhythm even in the limited opportunities he has got so far and South Africa may try to take advantage of this area.
The surface at Eden Gardens is expected to be batting friendly. South Africa might like to chase the target, especially against a New Zealand side who have played their Super Eight matches on slow Sri Lankan pitches. The true Kolkata surface could encourage aggressive strokeplay from the likes of Finn Allen, Tim Seifert, Glenn Phillips and Daryl Mitchell, who could eye a total of over 200 to put pressure on the Proteas.
Much will depend on how South Africa's Lungi Ngidi uses his variations – particularly his slower balls, wide yorkers and leg-cutters – on a flat track. For New Zealand, Lockie Ferguson's opening spell could prove decisive in deciding the fate of the contest.
South Africa vs New Zealand T20 World Cup Semi-Final: Live Streaming Details
When is the South Africa vs New Zealand T20 World Cup semi-final match?
The South Africa vs New Zealand T20 World Cup semi-final match will be played on Wednesday, March 4.
At what time will the South Africa vs New Zealand T20 World Cup semi-final match be played?
The match will start at 7:00 PM IST, while the toss will take place at 6:30 PM IST.
Where will the South Africa vs New Zealand T20 World Cup semi-final match be played?
The South Africa vs New Zealand T20 World Cup semi-final match will be held at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
Where can you watch the live telecast of South Africa vs New Zealand T20 World Cup semi-final match?
The match will be telecast live on Star Sports Network.
Where can we watch the South Africa vs New Zealand T20 World Cup semi-final match online?
Live updates and coverage will be available here TimesofIndia.com.
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South Africa vs New Zealand T20 World Cup Semi-Final: Probable XI
South Africa (Probable XI): Aiden Markram (captain), Quinton de Kock (wk), Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brewis, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, George Linde, Corbin Bosch, Anrich Nortje, Kwena Mfaka, Lungi Ngidi.
New Zealand (Probable XI): Tim Seifert (wk), 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 Semi-Final: Teams
South Africa team: Aiden Markram (captain), Quinton de Kock (wicketkeeper), Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brewis, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Marco Johnson, Corbin Bosch, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, George Linde, Anrich Nortje, Kwena Mafaka, Jason Smith.
New Zealand team: Tim Seifert (wk), 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.