South Africa will face New Zealand in the second T20I of the series at Bay Oval after securing a convincing seven wicket victory in the opening match. The hosts will look to level the series, while South Africa aim to extend their early advantage with another strong performance.
Match details
Venue:Seddon Park, New Zealand
Date: Monday, 16 March 2026
Time: 11:45 AM (IST), 11:15 AM (PST), 06:15 AM (GMT)
Team overviews
New Zealand
New Zealand enter the second T20I under pressure after losing the series opener. The Mitchell Santner led side will aim to bounce back quickly and make better use of home conditions at Bay Oval. The team relies on a balanced lineup that combines experienced players with emerging talent.
Devon Conway and Tim Robinson are expected to provide stability at the top of the order. Conway has shown consistency in recent matches, while Robinson has displayed the ability to play attacking innings. Tom Latham strengthens the top order and can anchor the innings if early wickets fall.
The middle order includes Nick Kelly, Bevon Jacobs and James Neesham, who add power and flexibility. Santner remains a crucial all round presence as captain, contributing with both bat and ball. The bowling attack features Kyle Jamieson and Ben Sears as the main pace options, while Santner and Cole McConchie will handle spin duties.
New Zealand will aim to improve their batting performance and put scoreboard pressure on the visitors.
Probable Playing XI:
Devon Conway (wk), Tim Robinson, Tom Latham, Nick Kelly, Bevon Jacobs, James Neesham, Mitchell Santner (c), Zak Foulkes, Cole McConchie, Kyle Jamieson, Ben Sears
South Africa
South Africa started the series strongly with a seven wicket victory in the first match. The Keshav Maharaj led side displayed good balance between batting depth and bowling control.
Tony de Zorzi and Jordan Hermann are expected to open the innings again. Both batters have shown the ability to score quickly in the powerplay. Rubin Hermann and Jason Smith add stability in the middle order, while Dian Forrester provides finishing capability.
Captain Keshav Maharaj remains the key figure in the bowling department with his spin bowling. George Linde offers additional spin support and contributes as an all rounder. The pace attack led by Gerald Coetzee and Ottniel Baartman gives South Africa the ability to strike with the new ball and at the death.
South Africa will look to replicate their disciplined performance from the first match and secure the series lead.
Probable Playing XI:
Connor Esterhuizen (wk), Tony de Zorzi, Jordan Hermann, Rubin Hermann, Jason Smith, Dian Forrester, George Linde, Gerald Coetzee, Nqobani Mokoena, Keshav Maharaj (c), Ottniel Baartman
Key players
Devon Conway remains one of New Zealand’s most reliable T20 batters and can provide a solid start. Mitchell Santner plays a crucial role as captain and all rounder, particularly with his spin bowling on helpful surfaces. Ben Sears can be a key wicket taking option with the new ball.
For South Africa, Tony de Zorzi and Jordan Hermann provide attacking options at the top of the order. Keshav Maharaj will be important in the middle overs with his spin control. George Linde adds value with both bat and ball and can influence the match in multiple phases.
Head to head record
New Zealand and South Africa have developed a competitive rivalry in T20 internationals. Before this series, the two teams had faced each other in 20 matches, with South Africa holding the advantage with 12 wins compared to New Zealand’s 8.
Pitch report
Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui is known as a high scoring T20 venue. Batters generally enjoy the true bounce and even pace of the surface, allowing stroke play throughout the innings.
The average first innings score at the ground is around 155, while teams chasing average close to 137. Spinners have historically maintained a slightly better economy rate compared to fast bowlers at this venue. Captains often prefer batting first to put pressure on the chasing side.
Probable match scenarios
If New Zealand bat first, they will aim for a total in the range of 165 to 180, which could prove competitive given the ground’s scoring trends. Their bowlers will then rely on early breakthroughs and spin control from Santner and McConchie.
If South Africa chase again, their aggressive top order could target the powerplay overs to gain early momentum. Their bowling unit will focus on restricting the hosts in the middle overs and striking during the death overs.
Live streaming and broadcast
The match will be broadcast on Sony Sports Network for viewers in India. Live streaming will be available on the SonyLIV app and website across the Indian subcontinent, including Pakistan where streaming access is available through official partners.
Viewers in the United Kingdom, Australia and other regions can follow the match through official international broadcast partners and global streaming services. Live scores, commentary and updates will also be available on major cricket platforms and mobile apps.
Match prediction
South Africa carry confidence after winning the opening match and currently appear slightly stronger with their balanced bowling attack. However, New Zealand have the advantage of home conditions and will be motivated to level the series. The contest could be closely fought, but South Africa may hold a narrow edge if their top order performs again.
