New Zealand vs South Africa, 24th Match, Group D

The upcoming 24th match of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 between New Zealand and South Africa at the Narendra Modi Stadium promises to be an electrifying encounter. Both teams have demonstrated strong form in recent limited-overs cricket, but their T20 World Cup performances have been a blend of highs and lows. New Zealand enters the contest with a solid blend of experience and youth, with key players like Kane Williamson and Devon Conway consistently anchoring innings. Their bowling, led by Trent Boult and Tim Southee, has often been penetrative, focusing on both early wickets and controlling death overs. South Africa, meanwhile, has always been a formidable T20 force, known for their athleticism and power-hitting, with leaders like Quinton de Kock and Rassie van der Dussen in top form. Their pace attack featuring Kagiso Rabada offers both swing and pace on subcontinental tracks. Historically, the head-to-head matches have been intensely competitive, often going down to the wire; strategic adaptability is crucial for both sides. South Africa’s aggressive batting deep into the order provides depth, while New Zealand’s tactical approach and fielding excellence can turn matches. Conditions at Narendra Modi Stadium favor quick scoring with some assistance to pacers early on. Teams winning the toss may prefer to field first to exploit early movement. Considering all factors, South Africa’s power-hitting and bowling firepower inch them slightly ahead, but New Zealand’s consistency and experience keep the contest evenly poised.

AI suggested match winner: New Zealand: 48%, South Africa: 52%

If New Zealand bats first, they are likely to post a competitive total in the range of 165-175 runs, given their strong middle order and ability to build innings steadily on a batting-friendly pitch. Conversely, if South Africa bats first, their aggressive lineup can exploit the powerplay and finish strongly, potentially putting up 170-180 runs. The pitch at Narendra Modi Stadium generally supports stroke play with true bounce, making it favorable for batsmen. However, disciplined bowling during middle overs can restrict scoring. Both sides have the firepower to surpass 175 if the conditions are aiding batting, making any total above 170 well-defended in this contest.

The Narendra Modi Stadium typically offers a balanced pitch favoring batsmen but assists fast bowlers with early movement if they make use of the conditions. The average first-innings score at this venue in T20Is hovers around 160-170, making it a decent scoring surface. Teams chasing have a decent success rate of about 55%, given the ground size and fielding standards. Weather forecast for the match day indicates clear skies with a temperature of around 27°C and minimal chance of rain, ensuring an uninterrupted game. The pitch tends to slow down slightly in the later stages, which can offer spinners some assistance. Among the two teams, Trent Boult holds the best bowling record at this ground with multiple 3+ wicket hauls, while Quinton de Kock stands out as the top batsman, having scored a quickfire 70+ in previous matches here. The best individual performance at the venue in a New Zealand vs South Africa T20 match remains a 90-run knock by Kane Williamson, coupled with 4 wickets by Rabada in a crucial chase.

Metric	New Zealand	South Africa
Total Matches	25	25
Matches Won	12	13

Team Recent Performance

Team	Last 5 T20 Matches
New Zealand	W, L, W, W, L
South Africa	W, W, L, W, W

Kane Williamson: Proven T20 captain, recent innings include a steady 55* off 40 balls showcasing temperament and control under pressure.

Devon Conway: Consistent opener with aggressive stroke play, recently scored two 40+ knocks, setting strong foundations.

Trent Boult: Leading pacer noted for early breakthroughs and tight death overs bowling, picked 8 wickets in last 4 T20 matches.

Quinton de Kock: Dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman, prolific in quick runs, last tournament showed 85 runs in 3 innings.

Rassie van der Dussen: Clinical finisher with excellent strike rotation, recent form very solid with 120+ runs in last 4 T20 games.

Kagiso Rabada: Express pace bowler, aggressive wicket-taker, recently picked up a 4-wicket haul in a T20 international.