SA vs NZ, T20 World Cup 2026: The first semi-final match of T20 World Cup 2026 proved to be one-sided at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, where New Zealand defeated South Africa by 9 wickets. This victory took New Zealand to the finals, where they will now fight for the title. In this match, one mistake of their team’s star Quinton de Kock cost South Africa a lot. If Quinton De Kock had not made this mistake, the outcome of the match could have been different.
A voice from Quinton de Kock and the team out
In this match, New Zealand won the toss and chose to bowl first. At the same time, the South African team could score only 169 runs for 8 wickets in 20 overs. In reply, New Zealand had an explosive start. Openers Finn Allen and Tim Seifert made a tremendous partnership of 117 runs for the first wicket. Due to which New Zealand achieved the target by 1 wicket in 12.5 overs. During this time, an opportunity also came in the match, which proved costly for South Africa.
In fact, Kagiso Rabada gave a golden opportunity to Tim Seifert on the first ball of the second over of New Zealand’s innings. The ball had gone into the air due to the top edge, but Quinton de Kock missed this big opportunity. Quinton De Kock himself had made the call to take this catch. Let us tell you, when the ball went in the air, Quinton De Kock ran back towards fine leg for the catch, but he could not reach under the ball. However, Dewald Brevis, standing at deep fine leg, was close to the ball, but De Kock made a call and the catch was dropped. This lease of life proved to be a boon for New Zealand, as Seifert and Allen then thrashed the Proteas bowlers. If Quinton De Kock had not made this call, it could have been an easy opportunity for Dewald Brewis.
Tim Seifert scored a half century
When Tim Seifert missed this catch, he was on only 11 runs. But he took full advantage of this opportunity and played a stormy innings of 58 runs in 33 balls at a strike rate of 175.75. During this, he hit 7 fours and 2 sixes. Due to which New Zealand achieved an easy victory in this match. At the same time, Finn Allen also caught everyone’s attention by scoring an unbeaten 100 runs in 33 balls.
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