New Zealand and South Africa face off in a heavyweight Group D clash as two unbeaten sides battle for supremacy at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Match 24 at Ahmedabad could decide the group topper and set the tone heading into the Super 8 stage.
Match details
Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium
Date: Friday, February 14
Time: 7:00 PM IST, 6:30 PM PST, 01:30 PM GMT
Team overviews
New Zealand arrive in Ahmedabad with confidence and clarity. They remain unbeaten in the group stage and have impressed with their methodical approach across all departments. The Black Caps have relied on structured batting, smart game awareness, and disciplined bowling, particularly through the middle overs where they have consistently controlled scoring and taken wickets. Under the leadership of Mitchell Santner, New Zealand have shown adaptability to conditions and opposition, making them one of the most well-rounded sides in the tournament so far.
South Africa also enter this contest undefeated and brimming with confidence. The Proteas have leaned heavily on their power-packed batting lineup and a formidable pace attack capable of unsettling even the strongest batting orders. Their approach has been aggressive, with an emphasis on imposing themselves early in both innings. Led by Aiden Markram, South Africa have looked sharp and assertive, playing with the kind of intent that often proves decisive in T20 tournament cricket.
Key players
Finn Allen remains a crucial figure for New Zealand at the top of the order. His ability to score quickly in the powerplay can shift momentum within a few overs. Mitchell Santner’s role extends beyond captaincy, as his left-arm spin and calm presence with the bat often anchor New Zealand during pressure phases. Devon Conway and Daryl Mitchell also provide stability in the middle order, ensuring New Zealand maintain balance between aggression and control.
For South Africa, Kagiso Rabada stands out as a genuine match-winner with the ball. His pace, accuracy, and experience in high-pressure matches make him a constant threat, especially in the powerplay and death overs. David Miller continues to be one of the most dangerous finishers in world cricket, capable of turning games in the final overs with clean, powerful hitting. Support from players like Quinton de Kock and Marco Jansen further strengthens South Africa’s all-round credentials.
Head-to-head record
New Zealand and South Africa have faced each other 18 times in T20 internationals. South Africa hold the advantage with 11 wins, while New Zealand have won seven matches. Historically, the Proteas have enjoyed success against the Black Caps in the shortest format, often using pace and late-order hitting to dominate. However, World Cup encounters frequently defy past trends, and New Zealand have a reputation for rising to big occasions.
Pitch report
The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad generally offers good bounce and carry early in the innings, making it conducive to stroke play during the powerplay. Batters who settle in can score freely, and the surface has the potential to produce totals exceeding 200. As the match progresses, spinners may find some grip, but overall the pitch remains batting-friendly. Bowlers who vary pace and hit hard lengths tend to find more success, particularly in the latter half of the innings.
Probable match scenarios
If New Zealand bat first, they will aim to build a solid platform before accelerating through the middle overs, using their depth to post a challenging total. Their bowlers will then look to apply pressure through tight spells and smart field placements. If South Africa bat first, expect an aggressive start, with their top order targeting the powerplay to seize early control. Chasing could be slightly easier under lights, but execution in the final overs will remain decisive.
Probable playing XIs
New Zealand: Finn Allen, Devon Conway (wicketkeeper), Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner (captain), James Neesham, Michael Bracewell, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi.
South Africa: Quinton de Kock, Aiden Markram (captain), Tristan Stubbs, David Miller, Dewald Brevis, Marco Jansen, George Linde, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Lungi Ngidi, Keshav Maharaj.
Live streaming and broadcast
In India, the match will be broadcast live on JioStar Network television channels and streamed on the JioHotstar app and website. Viewers in Pakistan can watch the game through official ICC broadcast partners on television and digital platforms. Audiences in the UK and Australia can follow live coverage via licensed broadcasters and their streaming services. Global viewers can access the match through ICC-authorised TV channels and apps available in their respective regions.
Match prediction
This fixture promises to be one of the most evenly contested games of the group stage. New Zealand’s structure, discipline, and game management give them a slight edge in pressure situations. South Africa’s explosive batting and elite pace attack, however, ensure they remain a serious threat throughout the match. Expect a high-scoring contest, with composure in the final overs likely deciding the outcome. On balance, New Zealand start as marginal favorites, but a Proteas statement win cannot be ruled out.
