Ahmedabad witnessed the Group D fixture of the T20 World Cup 2026 between New Zealand and South Africa in the 24th match of the event on February 14, 2026. South Africa chased the target set by New Zealand with ease, securing the match by 7 wickets and 17 overs, thanks to a fiery bowling performance by Marco Jansen.

New Zealand Innings: Good Start, but Middle Order Struggles

New Zealand had a great start, reaching 58 for 3 in six overs. FH Allen led the charge with 31, raising the score to 50 in just 4.5 overs. In the middle overs, the Kiwi middle order contributed well, including a 50-run stand between MS Chapman and DJ Mitchell, with the latter scoring 28 and the former scoring 22. In the end, the Kiwis reached 175 for 7 in 20 overs, with JDS Neesham scoring 23. In the 13th over, South Africa reviewed the dismissal of MS Chapman, causing the middle order of the Kiwis to struggle again.

South Africa innings: Aiden Markram's power-hitting in the chase

South Africa chased 176 runs with ease. Aiden Markram struck 50 runs off 19 deliveries, which included six fours and four sixes. He reached 100 runs in 7.2 overs. Q de Kock and RD Rickelton assisted Aiden Markram in the chase.

South Africa reached 150 runs in 15.1 overs and eventually reached 178/3 in 17.1 overs. South Africa won the match by 7 wickets, and the match was finished with 17 balls left. The chase was filled with aggressive batting and accurate finishing, forcing New Zealand to respond accordingly.

Player of the Match: Marco Jansen
Marco Jansen was given the Player of the Match award for his exceptional bowling performance, where he took 4/40 and restricted New Zealand to a chaseable score.

Key Highlights
New Zealand: 175/7 in 20 overs (Top Score: FH Allen - 31)

South Africa: 178/3 in 17.1 overs (Top Score: AK Markram - 69)

South Africa won the match by 7 wickets and 17 balls left
Marco Jansen's 4-wicket haul was the turning point in the match
South Africa's dominant performance has given a boost to their position in Group D. New Zealand will look to regroup before the next matches.