T20 World Cup: Markram powers South Africa to seven-wicket win over New Zealand

AHMEDABAD (Dunya News) – South Africa outclassed New Zealand by seven wickets in the 24th match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, comfortably chasing a 176-run target at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Saturday.

Proteas captain Aiden Markram played a scintillating innings of 86 not out off 44 balls, hitting eight fours and four sixes, guiding South Africa to victory with 17 balls to spare. His innings was supported by David Miller, who remained unbeaten on 24 off 17 deliveries, while Quinton de Kock (20), Ryan Rickelton (21), and Tristan Stubbs (21) also contributed crucial runs. This win marked South Africa’s third consecutive victory in the 20-team mega event.

Blackcaps innings

Put into bat first, New Zealand posted 175 for seven in their allotted 20 overs. The innings got off to a promising start as Tim Seifert (13) and Finn Allen (31) added 33 runs in just 3.2 overs. Marco Jansen struck first for South Africa, dismissing Seifert, while Allen fell soon after to Jansen, leaving New Zealand at 58/3.

Rachin Ravindra contributed 13 runs before being caught by Jansen. Glenn Phillips added just one run before being removed by Keshav Maharaj. A stabilising partnership between Mark Chapman (48) and Daryl Mitchell (32) produced 74 runs for the fifth wicket, but both were dismissed in quick succession. James Neesham ended the innings with an unbeaten 23, keeping the total competitive.

South Africa response

The Proteas made light work of the chase, reaching 178 for three in 17.1 overs. Markram’s masterclass ensured New Zealand’s bowlers could not find a breakthrough, while Miller anchored the innings alongside the supporting batters.

Marco Jansen was the standout bowler for South Africa, taking four wickets for 40 runs.

Marco Jansen's efficient display helped South Africa to a comprehensive win in Ahmedabad

He's the @aramco POTM pic.twitter.com/Wrgt2qQjK7

— ICC (@ICC) February 14, 2026

Lungi Ngidi, Corbin Bosch, and Keshav Maharaj claimed one wicket each. For New Zealand, Lockie Ferguson, James Neesham, and Rachin Ravindra managed a single wicket apiece.

Following this victory, South Africa maintain a strong position in Group D, while New Zealand will look to bounce back in their upcoming fixtures.