The T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal match at Eden Gardens in Kolkata has turned into an exciting contest between South Africa and New Zealand. Both teams are giving their best to qualify for the final. The knockout match has made every ball very important. New Zealand’s bowlers have kept the South African batters under constant pressure.

South Africa struggled from the very beginning as New Zealand won the toss and chose to field first. The top order of South Africa struggled against the disciplined bowling of New Zealand. The wickets fell very quickly, and the middle order had to take responsibility to take the innings forward. Dewald Brevis scored 34 steady runs, while Aiden Markram scored 18 runs for South Africa.

However, the Proteas still needed to score heavily to reach a competitive total. The Kiwi bowlers didn’t allow the Proteas to score freely. Tight lines and intelligent variations made it hard for the Proteas to gain momentum. The match was at a crucial juncture in the last overs when another crucial wicket was lost.

Lockie Ferguson’s Brilliant Delivery Removes Tristan Stubbs

The turning point in the match came in the 19th over, and Lockie Fergusonbowled a superb ball to dismiss Tristan Stubbs. Ferguson bowled from around the wicket and bowled a very smart leg-cutter at 128.5 kph. The ball pitched outside the leg stump and swung sharply across the batter. Stubbs was completely surprised by the change in pace and movement.

See Also: Watch: Daryl Mitchell’s controversial catch removes Aiden Markram in SA vs NZ T20 WC 2026 semi-final

Stubbs, who had played a fighting knock of 29 runs from 24 balls with two fours and one six, attempted an aggressive shot over mid-wicket. He cleared his front leg early to attack the delivery. However, he mistimed the shot badly and missed the ball. The delivery brushed his back thigh before crashing into the stumps.

Ferguson celebrated the important breakthrough as New Zealand tightened their grip on the match. The New Zealand bowling unit were very disciplined in the innings. With Ferguson’s wicket, Rachin Ravindra and Cole McConchie also bowled well to contain South Africa, getting crucial wickets and keep the pressure on.

As of writing, New Zealand have begun their chase with Tim Seifert and Finn Allen at the crease after South Africa set the target in the T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final.

The first semifinal of the T20 World Cup 2026 is in progress at the world-famous Eden Gardens in Kolkata. South Africa and New Zealand are locking horns in this highly competitive match to reach the finals. New Zealand’s bowlers have made scoring difficult for the Proteas.

After winning the toss, New Zealand elected to bowl first, and the strategy paid off as the South African top order struggled at the start of the innings. Cole McConchie got the better of Quinton de Kock for 10 and Ryan Rickelton for a duck. Aiden Markram tried to consolidate the innings and managed to score just 18 runs.

South Africa found themselves under pressure as the wickets started to fall at regular intervals. The Kiwi bowlers were tight and not giving the batters the freedom to score. By the time the innings approached the middle overs, South Africa were already in trouble. The situation became even worse with the fall of another key wicket.

Rachin Ravindra Removes Dangerous David Miller

The major moment of the innings came in the 10th over when David Miller lost his wicket. Rachin Ravindra bowled a full delivery at 94.8 kmph outside the off stump. Miller attempted to attack the ball and tried to hit it over long-off. However, he could not connect properly and hit it off the toe end of the bat.

Watch the video here

🚨 DAVID MILLER vs NZ IN ICC KNOCKOUTS 🚨

• 2015 – 49 (18) in the ICC Cricket World Cup 🔥
• 2025 – 100* (67) in the ICC Champions Trophy 💯👑
• 2026 – 6 (6) in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 💔#SAvNZ #T20WC2026 pic.twitter.com/C263XGWD9X

— Ahmad Says (@Ahm67518) March 4, 2026

See Also: Watch: Cole McConchie's two-wicket over put SA on the back foot in SA vs NZ Semifinal 1 of T20 World Cup 2026

The ball went high into the air and stayed there for a few seconds. Daryl Mitchell tracked it carefully from long off and moved to his left. He completed a safe catch just inside the boundary line. Miller had to walk back after scoring only 6 runs from 6 balls, leaving South Africa at 77/4.

New Zealand’s bowling performance has been very disciplined. McConchie’s early breakthroughs put South Africa under pressure, while Ravindra controlled the middle overs. He also removed important players like Markram and Miller. As the match reaches the halfway stage, New Zealand appears to have the upper hand in this crucial semi-final.

SA vs NZ 1st Semi-Final Match Preview:

The Men's T20 World Cup 2026 has found its four best teams, and the semi-finals will be played among them. The first semi-final of the tournament will be played between South Africa and New Zealand at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, India, on Wednesday evening. South Africa topped Group 1 after winning all their matches, while New Zealand secured the second spot in Group 2. The South African team is in high spirits and has not lost a single match in this tournament so far.

On the other hand, the New Zealand team, which is known for making big upsets, is ready to give a tough fight to South Africa. Neither team has yet won the T20 World Cup trophy and will put in all their efforts to achieve it. The spectators can witness an exciting match between both the veteran teams.

SA vs NZ Today Match Prediction – ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, 1st Semi-Final | Who Will Win?

Recent Performance: 

SA: W, W, W, W, W

NZ: L, W, W, L, W

SA vs NZ Match Details:

• Series/Tournament: ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026

• Match: SA vs NZ 

• Date: 4th Mar. 2026

• Match Start Time: 07:00 PM IST

• Stadium/Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata, India 

• Live Score: cricketwinner.com

• Live Streaming: JioStar Network Channels and JioHotstar

Head-to-Head Stats:

Weather Report:

• Temperature: 32–33°C
  

• Rain Chances: 3%
  

• Conditions: Hazy sunshine

 The weather is expected to be favourable during this match with 22% humidity.

Eden Gardens, Kolkata, Pitch Stats: 

Pitches at Eden Gardens are typically prepared with black cotton soil. The surface at this historic Kolkata ground is considered balanced for both batsmen and bowlers. However, as the match progresses, the pitch tends to slow down, which can provide additional assistance to spin bowlers.

• Win Batting First: 50%
  

• Win Bowling First: 40%
  

• Best Suited For: Pacers (65%)

Average Scores

• Average 1st Innings: 162
  
  

• Average 2nd Innings: 140

Winning the toss and batting first could be the ideal strategy.

SA vs NZ Probable Playing 11

South Africa (SA) Probable 11:

Aiden Markram (c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi 

New Zealand (NZ) Probable 11:

Mitchell Santner (c), Finn Allen, Tim Seifert (wk), Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Cole McConchie, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson

Top Picks from South Africa 

Top Picks from New Zealand 

Cricket Winner Player Insight:

• Aiden Markram is a classical top-order batsman and the leading run scorer for SA in this tournament. He can also bowl useful off-spin, providing additional balance to the team.
• Ryan Rickelton is an aggressive wicketkeeper-batsman who is capable of scoring big while maintaining a fast run rate, giving his team an advantage
• Rachin Ravindra is a reliable all-rounder for Kiwi’s, who has accumulated 115 runs and grabbed 9 wickets thus far. 
• Tim Seifert is the right-handed top-order batter who has smashed 216 runs thus far at an average of 43.20.

SA vs NZ Captain & Vice-Captain Choices:

SA vs NZ Fantasy Team Suggestion:  

SA vs NZ Dream11 Tips: 

Match Prediction – Who Will Win

South Africa has more in-form players like Markram, Miller and Lungisani Ngidi, which makes their team look stronger. Additionally, they have won all the matches so far, which gives them a lot of confidence from within. Cricket Winner expert is backing SA to win this match.

Prediction: SA to win.

South Africa is scheduled to compete with New Zealand in the 1st Semi-Final match of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 on March 4 at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. This is a crucial match where two powerful teams will compete with each other to qualify for the finals. 

South Africa have enjoyed an undefeated run so far in the tournament, winning all their matches in the group and Super Eight stages. Despite a mini scare in their last outing, they remain one of the balanced sides in the tournament. New Zealand, under Mitchell Santner, has shown its resilience, despite two defeats in the tournament so far. They will draw confidence from the fact that they are good at performing under pressure and will hope to surprise South Africa.

SA vs NZ: Weather Report

The weather at Kolkata will remain humid and pleasant, with no rain expected to fall. Since it is an evening game, it may feel slightly cool later on. Temperatures should range between 21 and 25°C under mostly clear skies. Overall the players and fans both seem comfortable with the conditions. 

SA vs NZ: Eden Gardens Stats (T20Is)

• Matches played: 20
• Average first-innings score: 162
• Average second-innings score: 140
• Teams winning batting first: 50%
• Teams winning bowling first: 40%
• Highest total: 207/4 (SCO vs ITA)
• Lowest total: 70/10 (BAN vs NZ)
• Highest chase: 199/5 (IND vs WI)
• Lowest total defended: 145/8 (BAN vs NZ)

See Also: IND vs ENG Today Match Prediction – ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, 2nd Semi-Final | Who Will Win?

SA vs NZ: Predicted Playing XIs

South Africa (SA):

Quinton de Kock (wk), Ryan Rickelton, Aiden Markram (c), Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, George Linde/Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj, Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi

New Zealand (NZ):

Tim Seifert (wk), Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner (c), Cole McConchie, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson

South Africa is scheduled to face New Zealand in the first match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026’s semi-finals at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on March 3. South Africa has gone unbeaten so far and will look to win their second consecutive title, while New Zealand will look to step up their game and win this match to avenge their previous losses to these opponents.

South Africa have been the most consistent side in the tournament. South Africa has gone unbeaten in the group stages and carried this momentum to the Super Eights, winning dominating matches against India, the West Indies, and Zimbabwe. In their last match, they restricted Zimbabwe to 153, with Kwena Maphaka and Corbin Bosch picking up key wickets. The chase was completed comfortably in 17.5 overs, with Dewald Brevis’ quick 42 and Ryan Rickelton’s 31. The Proteas will now aim to continue their winning run and book a place in the final.

New Zealand enters this semi-final after a close four-wicket loss to England in their last Super Eight match. Batting first, they posted 159 in 20 overs, with Glenn Phillips scoring 39 and Tim Seifert adding 35. Although the bowlers tried to defend the total, England chased it down in 19.3 overs. Rachin Ravindra was the standout with the ball, taking three wickets for 19 runs. The Black Caps will now need a complete team effort to challenge South Africa in this high-pressure game.

SA vs NZ: Head-to-Head in T20Is

• Matches Played: 19
  
• South Africa Won: 12
  
• New Zealand Won: 7
  
• Tied: 0
  
• No Result: 0

SA vs NZ: Pitch Report

The pitch at Eden Gardens is expected to help the batters, just like in the previous match. Fast bowlers can get some early movement if they bowl at the right length. The conditions should be good, with even bounce and carry, allowing batters to play freely. As the match progresses, the spinners might also get some help, and a score of around 160-170 might be posted in the first innings.

See Also: IND vs ENG Today Match Tips: Safe Picks, Captain Choice & Toss Prediction

SA vs NZ: Predicted Playing XIs

South Africa (SA):

Quinton de Kock (wk), Ryan Rickelton, Aiden Markram (c), Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, George Linde/Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj, Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi

New Zealand (NZ):

Tim Seifert (wk), Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner (c), Cole McConchie, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson

South Africa will take on New Zealand in the 1st Semi-Final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at Eden Gardens. South Africa had a very good tournament. They remain undefeated, winning all three of their group matches and then all their Super 8 matches to reach the semi-finals. Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton have been in outstanding form with the bat, and Lungi Ngidi's bowling has been excellent. The African team defeated Zimbabwe by 5 wickets in their last match. Chasing 154, they reached the target in 17.5 overs.

New Zealand, on the other hand, won one match and lost one in the Super 8, with one match abandoned due to rain. Both New Zealand and Pakistan have 3 points, but New Zealand qualified for the semi-finals due to a better run rate. New Zealand lost their previous match to England by four wickets.

Also Read: 'Ye team badla lene aayi hai...' - Fans react as South Africa stay unbeaten with 5 wicket win vs Zimbabwe in T20 World Cup 2026

SA vs NZ Match Details

• Match: South Africa vs New Zealand, 1st Semi-Final

• Date: 4th March 2026

• Time: 7:00 PM IST

• Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata

• Live Streaming: JioHotstar 

SA vs NZ Weather Report

Pitch Report - Eden Gardens, Kolkata

Eden Gardens has a flat surface and deep boundaries that balance out the game between the bat and the ball. The flat wicket allows batsmen to play on the up. Teams batting first have won the last four out of six games at the venue

• Win Batting First: 50%

• Win Bowling First: 50%

Average Scores

• Average 1st Innings: 164

• Average 2nd Innings: 141

SA vs NZ Recent Form

SA vs NZ Head-to-Head Record (T20I)

• NZ Wins - 7

• SA Wins - 12

Top Batters to Watch – SA vs NZ

• Aiden Markram (SA): 268 runs in this tournament 

• Ryan Rickelton (SA): 228 runs in this tournament 

• Tim Seifert (NZ): 216 runs in this tournament 

Top Bowlers to Watch – SA vs NZ

• Corbin Bosch (SA): 11 wickets in this tournament 

• Lungi Ngidi (SA): 12 wickets in this tournament 

• Marco Jansen (SA): 11 wickets in this tournament 

SA vs NZ Today Match Prediction Scenarios

Scenario 1: If NZ bats first

• Powerplay Score: 45–60

• Predicted Total: 170–175

• Match Result: SA to win

Scenario 2: If SA bats first

• Powerplay Score: 55–65

• Predicted Total: 175–190

• Match Result: SA to win

Who Will Hit the Most Sixes?

Who Will Hit the Most Fours?

SA vs NZ Predicted Playing XIs

New Zealand 

Mitchell Santner (c), Finn Allen, Tim Seifert (wk), Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Cole McConchie, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson

South Africa 

Aiden Markram (c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi 

Why South Africa is the favourite

• In-form top-order

• Excellent pace attack

• Lungi Ngidi's recent form

SA vs NZ Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today?

Based on current form, team balance, and superior batting strength, South Africa are the favourites to win this ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. Corbin Bosch, Lungi Ngidi and Aiden Markram are expected to be the key performers.

Winning chances

SA: 55%

NZ: 45%

SA vs NZ Match FAQs

Q1. Where can I watch the SA vs NZ live match?

You can watch the live streaming on the JioHotstar 

Q2. Who will win today’s SA vs NZ match?

According to our today's match prediction, South Africa are the favourites to win this encounter.

Q3. What time will the SA vs NZ match start?

The match begins at 7:00 PM IST 

SA vs NZ Match Preview

South Africa will take on New Zealand in the 2nd game of the T20I tri-series, which is being hosted in Zimbabwe. The most recent Tri-series took place three years ago. The game is scheduled to be played at Harare Sports Club in Harare on July 16th at 4:30 p.m. South Africa started the series with a five-wicket victory over Zimbabwe, and New Zealand is playing this T20I after a four-month break.

SA vs NZ Match Details

South Africa vs New Zealand – 2nd Match, Zimbabwe T20I Tri-Series, 2025

Venue: Harare Sports Club, Harare

Date & Time: 16th July 2025 at 04:30 PM IST 

Live Streaming: FanCode

SA vs NZ Venue Stats

SA vs NZ Pitch Report

It is an ideal bowling pitch. It is a haven for both batters and bowlers because it provides balance throughout all innings.

SA vs NZ Weather Report

The weather in Derby is expected to remain cloudy on match day, with conditions ranging from 9 to 22 degrees Celsius 

SA vs NZ Last Five Matches

SA vs NZ Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: PPL 2025: VMK vs MMS Dream11 Prediction 24th Match

SA vs NZ Probable Playing XIs:

New Zealand Probable Playing XIs

Mitchell Santner (c), Devon Conway, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Daryl Mitchel, Will O'Rourke, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi, Mitch Hay, Jimmy Neesham

South Africa Probable Playing XIs

Reeza Hendricks, Lhuan-dre Pretorius (wk), Rassie van der Dussen (c), Dewald Brevis, Rubin Hermann, George Linde, Corbin Bosch, Andile Simelane, Nqabayomzi Peter, Nandre Burger, Lungi Ngidi

Topmost Picks for SA vs NZ Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – South Africa

• Reeza Hendricks – Reeza Hendricks has played over 78 T20Is and scored 2282 runs at a strike rate of 132.
• George Linde – George Linde took 3 wickets and ten runs in the first game. He now has eight wickets in his previous 3 T20Is at an economy rate of 5.6.

Top Picks – New Zealand

• Tim Seifert – Tim Seifert earned 249 runs in a 5 match series versus Pakistan at a strike rate of over 200.
• Will O'Rourke –  Will O'Rourke has 21 wickets in the last nine T20Is at an economy rate of six.

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for SA vs NZ Dream11 Team:

Tim Seifert, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Reeza Hendricks, Rachin Ravindra(C), Rassie van der Dussen, George Linde(VC), Corbin Bosch, Mitchell Bracewell, Will O'Rourke, Matt Henry, Nandre Burger

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Rachin Ravindra, Charith Asalanka

Vice-captain – George Linde, Mehidy Hasan Miraz 

Wicketkeeper – Kusal Mendis

SA vs NZ Probable Winners:

South Africa will face a difficult task as it plays against a team other than Zimbabwe for the first time. New Zealand has appeared out of touch with the shortest format for the past four months, but all of their players have demonstrated their abilities in various T20 leagues around the world. In terms of batting and bowling, they have a better lineup than South Africa. On the other hand, South Africa's batting lineup is dependent on Dewald Brewis' explosive batting. Considering the team combination, New Zealand is expected to win this match.

South Africa won their first match by five wickets against Zimbabwe. Dewald Brevis was the standout performer for South Africa, scoring 41 runs off just 17 balls.

South Africa have won four of their five head-to-head matches against New Zealand. New Zealand are led by Mitchell Santner.

SA vs NZ Match Details

Date: July 16th, 2025

Time: 4:30 PM IST

Venue: Harare Sports Club, Harare 

Live Streaming: Fancode  

SA vs NZ Weather Report

Clear weather 

Also Read: GSL T20 2025: CS vs HUR Prediction– Match 7, Who will win today?

Top Batters SA vs NZ

• Rubin Hermann (SA) - 45 runs in this series 

• Dewald Brevis (SA) - 41 runs in this series 

• Corbin Bosch  (SA) - 23 runs this series 

Top Bowler SA vs NZ 

• George Linde (SA) - 3 wickets in this series 

• Lungi Ngidi (SA) - 1 wickets in this series 

• Nandre Burger (SA) - 1 wickets in this series 

SA vs NZ Recent Performance

SA vs NZ Today Match Prediction Scenarios

Scenario 1- If NZ bats first

• First Innings score prediction- NZ is expected to score 150-160 runs

• Result prediction- SA will win the match by 5 Wickets.

Scenario 2- If SA bats first

• First Innings score prediction- SA is expected to score 170-185 runs.

• Result prediction- SA will win the match by 10-20 Runs

SA vs NZ Predicted Playing XI

New Zealand (NZ) Playing XI 

Mitchell Santner (capt), Devon Conway, Mark Chapman, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Daryl Mitchel, Will O'Rourke, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi, Mitch Hay, Jimmy Neesham

South Africa (SA) Playing XI

Lhuan dre Pretorius (wk), Reeza Hendricks, Rassie van der Dussen (c), Dewald Brevis, Rubin Hermann, George Linde, Corbin Bosch, Andile Simelane, Nqabayomzi Peter, Lungi Ngidi, and Nandre Burger

SA vs NZ Today Match Prediction, Who Will Win the Match?

South Africa To win

We predict that South Africa will be winning this T20I match. The likes of George Linde, Rassie van der Dussen and Dewald Brevis will be key players to watch out for.

The Indian head coach, Gautam Gambhir, has found himself at the center of controversy after firing back at critics who suggested that India had an "undeniable advantage" in the Champions Trophy thanks to the fact that all their matches are in Dubai. Gambhir was speaking in the post-match press conference after India's win over Australia when he elaborated vehemently on the critics' comments that sparked a backlash from South Africa, to which the media called, among others, his rebuttal "arrogant.".

With the criticisms brazenly leveled against the team, Gambhir held nothing back. "Some people are just perpetual cribbers, man. They've got to grow up," he shot back, silencing the allegations. He also discarded the idea of there being any kind of an advantage to be had, claiming not even the Indian team had practiced at the venue of the tournament.

"What undue advantage? We haven't practiced here even a day. We practice at ICC Academy, and the conditions here and there are 180 degrees different," he explained.

Sections of South African media did not take Gambhir's outspoken remarks in good faith and accused him of having an overly defensive and dismissive attitude. Some reports labeled his remarks as arrogant and maintained he failed to acknowledge the concern over the timing and venues of the tournament. 

Gautam Gambhir Targeted By South Africa Media With 'Hollow Victory' Jibe: "Cringe-Worthy..."https://t.co/V8HENX12K9 pic.twitter.com/NB2HbTsK9h

— CricketNDTV (@CricketNDTV) March 6, 2025

Also Read: Once Again The Topic Of Disadvantage Ignites In Champions Trophy 2025

This heated argument has made cricket fans and analysts fall out of favor with one another. Most of them are coming in favor of Gambhir. His team played well and was given a stern reply to the people against it; bad comments according to the few people. 

As the Champions Trophy matures, this debate will likely intensify the already charged atmosphere of the competition. Gambhir may or may not speak any further words. He may just let his team's action do the talking

New Zealand's Rachin Ravindra and Kane Williamson broke several records in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final match against South Africa in Lahore. Their titanic 164-run partnership is now the Black Caps' all-time highest-ever stand in the history of the tournament.

Both the centurions are back in the hut. New Zealand are 252/3 after 40 overs.

📸: JioStar pic.twitter.com/uOalYeMsUb

— CricTracker (@Cricketracker) March 5, 2025

Both the batsmen also scored centuries, playing key roles in helping New Zealand to a huge total of 362 runs.

Ravindra's Century and Record-Breaking Stand

Ravindra was the key to this record-breaking alliance, hitting an unbelievable 108 off 101 deliveries. His innings were laced with classy shots and elegant shot-making before he was dismissed in the 34th over. Kagiso Rabada got rid of him with a wide off-cutter, which brought about an edge, that Heinrich Klaasen glove-slid behind the stumps safely.

Williamson Completes His Ton After Ravindra’s Departure

Williamson came in to join Ravindra quite early in the innings after Will Young was dismissed within the initial 10 overs. The pair took the Kiwis beyond the 210-run mark, keeping the South African bowlers on their toes.
Whereas Ravindra batted with ferocity, Williamson kept the scoreboard ticking through well-timed singles and strategic boundary hits. After Ravindra got out, Williamson batted on smoothly with Daryl Mitchell.

ALSO SEE: We will play fearless cricket says Pakistan New T20 captain Salman Ali Aga

He completed his century in the 40th over, reaching it in 91 balls. His innings, though, came to an end at 102 off 94 balls when he tried a scoop shot off Wiaan Mulder but could not get a clean connection. His elegant knock contained 10 fours and 2 sixes.

A Record-Breaking Partnership

The 164-run stand between Williamson and Ravindra is now the highest by a New Zealand pair in Champions Trophy history. According to Cricbuzz, the earlier record was a 163-run partnership between Scott Styris and Nathan Astle against the USA at The Oval in 2004.

Two players scoring centuries in the same innings in ICC knockouts

S Watson & R Ponting vs 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿, 2009 CT SF
T Dilshan & U Tharanga vs 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿, 2011 WC QF
T Head & S Smith vs 🇮🇳, 2023 WTC Final
V Kohli & S Iyer vs 🇳🇿, 2023 WC SF
R Ravindra & K Williamson vs 🇿🇦, 2025 CT SF… pic.twitter.com/U0iSnghg96

— CricTracker (@Cricketracker) March 5, 2025

Moreover, Ravindra and Williamson are also the new record holders of the highest partnership against South Africa in the tournament. The old record was also 163, which was held by England's Paul Collingwood and Owais Shah in 2009.

Massive Feats for the Duo

Ravindra was the first New Zealand cricketer to make more than one century in a single Champions Trophy season. Williamson later joined him in the exclusive club of NZ batsmen with more than one Champions Trophy hundred overall.

Ravindra has now achieved the second-lowest number of innings to reach five ODI centuries for New Zealand, as per Cricbuzz. Only Devon Conway has done it quicker, reaching the mark in 22 innings.

At the same time, Williamson is currently second on the list of New Zealand batsmen with the most ODI centuries against one team. He trails Nathan Astle (five against India) and Ross Taylor (five against England).

Thanks to their record-breaking innings, Ravindra and Williamson have secured their position in New Zealand cricket history, leading their side to a strong total in a high-pressure semi-final.