🏏ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026: M24: SA vs NZ at Ahmedabad🏏 - Page 3

Therein, though, also lies the caveat. World Cups are meant to be dramatic. They are designed to throw up surprises. And they are supposed to, even for two teams sitting as comfortably as New Zealand and South Africa, not allow a moment's rest.

At the moment, New Zealand sit at the top of the Group D points table with 4 points from 2 matches, while South Africa follow closely in second place with 4 points as well, trailing only on net run rate. Furthermore, New Zealand stormed into this clash after hammering the UAE by 10 wickets, as they chased down 174 in just 15.2 overs with ruthless efficiency. Meanwhile, South Africa arrive with equal momentum after surviving a thrilling double Super Over win against Afghanistan, with both teams finishing tied on 187 runs in normal play. Therefore, this fixture will feature the two most clinical sides in the group, and consequently the unbeaten streak of one team will finally end.

New Zealand’s openers produced a historic masterclass in their last outing, as Tim Seifert smashed 89* off 42 balls while Finn Allen powered 84* off 50 balls, and together they registered the highest partnership in T20 World Cup history. Additionally, Matt Henry chipped in with 2/37, while Mitchell Santner strangled the scoring rate with an economy of 5.75. On the other hand, South Africa displayed unmatched resilience against Afghanistan, as Ryan Rickelton struck 61 and Quinton de Kock added 59 to keep the chase alive. Moreover, Lungi Ngidi delivered a match-winning spell of 3/26, while David Miller later ended the contest by hammering 16 runs in the decisive second Super Over. Consequently, New Zealand’s explosive start will face a serious challenge against South Africa’s proven bowling depth.

South Africa and New Zealand have played 15 T20Is against each other so far, and South Africa dominate the head-to-head record with 11 wins, while New Zealand have managed only 4 victories. Nevertheless, New Zealand often peak in global tournaments, and therefore they will believe they can flip the script despite the historical gap. Furthermore, South Africa will enjoy extra comfort in Ahmedabad because they have already played both their earlier matches at this venue. However, New Zealand’s current rhythm looks unstoppable, and consequently they will push hard to claim the top spot in Group D with a powerful statement win.

This match will be interesting

Thanks for tag n thread

Shadow-Shell: "It was supposed to be the group of death, but both teams will be coming in very relaxed. On the other hand, Groups B&C are very much alive" -- England, though, are doing their best to ensure they have a relaxed time of it too.

Originally posted by: SoniRita

This match will be interesting

Thanks for tag n thread

Ikr! It feels like after a long time we are seeing a match against two well established sides instead of a giant and an associate nation.

Originally posted by: missFiesty_69

Ikr! It feels like after a long time we are seeing a match against two well established sides instead of a giant and an associate nation.

39 overs on Wednesday against Afghanistan, South Africa had it in their grasp. And then, they almost had it snatched away from them. A few minutes later, Afghanistan had it. And they too had it snatched away from them. Only for South Africa, with Afghanistan threatening a third heist, to somehow squeak past the finish line.

Originally posted by: SoniRita

exactly my point. Not discarding Associate nations but whenever its well established team n associate team plays i find those matches predictable and boring

Yup. It’s like seeing a wrestler with years of experience going an amateur. Very rarely do they manage to upset the giant. Like we can count such instances.

It's Match 24 and we're at the Narendra Modi stadium for the big Group D clash featuring New Zealand and South Africa. Presumed as the 'Group of Death', this group has seen some enthralling games, none better than the South Africa-Afghanistan clash which ended in the second super over. On the other hand, New Zealand have marched along with ease and have secured two thumping wins. Another win tonight and they'll all but lock a spot in the Super Eights. The bowling has been decent on two good batting pitches in Chepauk, but it's their top-order which has stoked fire. Tim Seifert has been the highest run-scorer of the tournament so far after knocks of 65 and 89* while Finn Allen has been in prolific form, both at the franchise and the international level. Add Glenn Phillips to his new role at 4, the batting has plenty of muscle and power. They played both their opening games in Chennai and Chepauk did roll out batting beauties.