New Zealand vs South Africa T20 World Cup 2026 promises fireworks on Valentine’s Day! This Group D showdown at the massive Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad brings two powerhouse teams head-to-head. Both sides sit unbeaten with 4 points each after dominant wins—New Zealand crushing Afghanistan and UAE, while South Africa overpowered Canada and edged Afghanistan in a thrilling super over finish.
Even though qualification for the Super Eights is secure (with pre-set group paths), this match carries huge pride. New Zealand seeks to extend recent dominance over South Africa, while the Proteas aim to reclaim their historical edge in World Cup meetings. The rivalry blends fierce competition with genuine respect—fueled by shared franchise experiences and cultural ties across the Southern Hemisphere.
Cricket fans from both nations know this fixture delivers drama. Think back to those heart-stopping ODI World Cup clashes: South Africa’s infamous 2011 choke in the quarter-final against New Zealand, or Grant Elliott’s match-winning six off Dale Steyn in the 2015 semi-final. Add the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup final where New Zealand defended 158 to beat favored South Africa by 32 runs. Now, on February 14, 2026, these men’s teams meet for the first time in a T20 World Cup since 2014.
Will the Black Caps keep rolling with their explosive batting? Or will South Africa’s pace and experience shine through? This low-pressure contest could still produce one of the tournament’s classics—high scores, tactical battles, and pure T20 entertainment.
In this ultimate guide, we cover everything: match details, venue insights, pitch and dew analysis, weather, squads, probable XIs, players to watch, head-to-head stats, rivalry history, key battles, and a reasoned prediction. Let’s dive in for all the excitement ahead!
Match Details: New Zealand vs South Africa, 24th Match, Group D
Catch New Zealand vs South Africa T20 World Cup 2026 on Saturday, February 14, 2026—a perfect Valentine’s Day treat for cricket lovers.
- Date: February 14, 2026
- Time: 7:00 PM IST (Local), 1:30 PM GMT
- Toss: Around 6:30 PM IST
- Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, India
- Match Number: 24th Match, Group D, ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026
The evening start suits global fans—prime time in South Africa, late-night thrill for New Zealand supporters, and peak viewing in India. Expect packed stands and electric energy at the world’s largest cricket stadium.
Live Streaming and TV Broadcast (India Focus)
In India, watch on Star Sports Network (TV) and JioHotstar (streaming app/website). Global options include Willow TV (US/Canada), SuperSport (South Africa), Sky Sport (New Zealand), and ICC.tv for free streams in select regions.
| Region | TV Broadcast | Streaming Platform |
|---|---|---|
| India | Star Sports Network | JioHotstar |
| South Africa | SuperSport | SuperSport app |
| New Zealand | Sky Sport | Sky Go |
| Global/Select | Various | ICC.tv (free in some) |
Gather your mates, light the braai (or barbecue), and enjoy this clash of Southern Hemisphere giants!
Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad: Venue Guide and Key Stats
The Narendra Modi Stadium (also called Motera) stands as the world’s largest cricket venue with a whopping 132,000 capacity. Located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, it hosts Gujarat and Gujarat Titans in the IPL and delivers massive crowds and modern vibes. Ends: Adani Pavilion End and GMDC End.
This iconic ground offers a grand stage for New Zealand vs South Africa T20 World Cup 2026. Recent World Cup games here, like South Africa’s thrilling super over win over Afghanistan, showed its potential for drama.
Key T20I Stats at Narendra Modi Stadium
| Statistic | Record/Details |
|---|---|
| Total T20I Matches | 13 |
| Matches Won Batting First | 9 |
| Matches Won Bowling First | 4 |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 171 |
| Average 2nd Innings Score | 147 |
| Highest Team Total | 234/4 (India vs New Zealand) |
| Lowest Team Total | 66/10 (New Zealand vs India) |
| Highest Successful Chase | 166/3 (India vs England) |
The venue favors high scores with true bounce and fast outfield. Pacers get early help, spinners grip later. Night games often turn into run-fests under lights.
Recent World Cup action at the ground includes South Africa’s 213/4 vs Canada (win by 57 runs) and the tied thriller vs Afghanistan (SA won 2nd super over). Expect another high-octane display when these two elite sides collide.
Pitch Report: What to Expect at Narendra Modi Stadium
The red-soil pitch for New Zealand vs South Africa T20 World Cup 2026 mirrors the surface from recent games—flat, true bounce, and batter-friendly with assistance for quality bowlers.
Expect good carry early for pacers like Matt Henry or Kagiso Rabada. Spinners (Santner, Maharaj) find grip as the ball softens. The track rewards stroke-makers but punishes loose shots.
Dew Factor in Ahmedabad Night Match — Crucial! Evening temps drop to mid-20s°C, bringing heavy dew. The ball skids and becomes hard to grip, favoring the chasing side heavily. Toss winners likely bowl first.
Toss Prediction & Tactical Impact
Chasing wins dominate recent night T20Is here (bowling first wins ~60-70% in similar conditions). Captains Mitchell Santner and Aiden Markram prioritize bowling first if dew arrives. Scores batting first: 180-200+ possible; chasing becomes easier.
Average Scores & Trends
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Avg 1st Innings | 171-182 |
| Avg 2nd Innings | 144-152 |
| Batting First Win % | ~60-70% (but dew shifts balance) |
Players/coaches note the surface aids stroke-play but demands discipline. Dew could turn this into a high-scoring thriller—perfect for power-hitters from both teams.
Ahmedabad Weather Forecast: February 14, 2026
Clear skies greet New Zealand vs South Africa T20 World Cup 2026—no rain risk!
- Day High: ~33°C
- Evening/Night: Mid-to-high 20s°C (pleasant under lights)
- Humidity: 35-50%
- Wind: Light (6-8 km/h)
These ideal conditions promise uninterrupted, high-energy cricket. Batters thrive in the cool evening, while dew adds late drama. Fans worldwide can relax—no weather worries for this blockbuster!
Squads and Probable Playing XI: New Zealand and South Africa
Both squads blend experience, youth, and all-round firepower—tailored for T20 explosiveness.
New Zealand Squad
Mitchell Santner (c), Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway (wk), Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert (wk), Ish Sodhi.
New Zealand Probable XI
- Tim Seifert (wk)
- Finn Allen
- Rachin Ravindra
- Glenn Phillips
- Daryl Mitchell
- Mark Chapman
- Mitchell Santner (c)
- James Neesham
- Matt Henry
- Lockie Ferguson
- Jacob Duffy
Reasoning: Consistent XI from recent wins. Left-heavy top order targets spin. Extra seamer (Duffy) suits conditions; Sodhi possible if pitch turns more.
South Africa Squad
Aiden Markram (c), Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Quinton de Kock (wk), Marco Jansen, George Linde, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton (wk), Jason Smith, Tristan Stubbs.
South Africa Probable XI
- Aiden Markram (c)
- Quinton de Kock (wk)
- Ryan Rickelton
- Dewald Brevis
- David Miller
- Tristan Stubbs
- Marco Jansen
- Corbin Bosch (or George Linde)
- Kagiso Rabada
- Keshav Maharaj
- Lungi Ngidi
Reasoning: Bosch likely returns over Linde to balance spin against NZ’s left-handers (4 in top 8). Pace trio (Rabada, Ngidi, Jansen) exploits early movement.
Selections reflect philosophies—NZ’s adaptable all-round depth, SA’s explosive batting with pace firepower.
New Zealand Players to Watch
Tim Seifert (wk) — Recent form: 257 runs in 6 matches, Avg 51.4, SR 174.82. Explosive opener; loves big stages.
Glenn Phillips — 218 runs in 7 matches, SR 155.71. Middle-order destroyer; strong vs pace/spin.
Rachin Ravindra — Modern No.3 archetype. Flashes of brilliance vs India; targets Maharaj’s spin.
Finn Allen — Aggressive opener; sets tone early.
Mitchell Santner (c) — All-round control; needs 30 runs for 1000 T20I milestone.
Lockie Ferguson & Matt Henry — Pace duo; Henry: “We look forward to the challenge against SA.” Expect bounce and yorkers.
These Black Caps stars can turn the game—watch for fireworks!
South Africa Players to Watch
Quinton de Kock (wk) — 383 runs in 9 matches, SR 178.97. Nears 3000 T20I runs milestone.
Aiden Markram (c) — 277 runs in 9 matches, SR 143.52. Steady leader; stresses discipline (extras issue).
Kagiso Rabada — World-class pacer; under pressure but lethal when on. Averages 34.55 recently but class shines.
David Miller & Tristan Stubbs — Finishers; power vs spin/pace.
Lungi Ngidi — 14 wickets in 7 matches, Econ 7.66. Deadly in death.
Keshav Maharaj — Spin threat vs NZ lefties.
Proteas rely on these stars for momentum—expect impact!
New Zealand vs South Africa: Head-to-Head Record
NZ vs SA T20 head to head shows South Africa’s overall edge, but New Zealand dominates recently.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Total T20Is Played | 17-18 |
| South Africa Wins | 11 |
| New Zealand Wins | 6-7 |
| No Result/Tied | 0-1 |
| In T20 World Cups | SA won all 4 (last 2014) |
| Last 5 Matches | NZ won 4, SA won 1 (NZ sweep 2025) |
Recent NZ dominance (3 wins in 2025) contrasts SA’s World Cup record. Pride on the line!
For more H2H stats ESPNcricinfo.
The Ultimate Rivalry: New Zealand vs South Africa Across World Cups
New Zealand vs South Africa cricket rivalry blends drama, respect, and Southern Hemisphere spirit. SA leads men’s World Cup meetings (7-6 overall formats), but NZ owns key ODIs: 2011 quarter-final choke, 2015 semi-final six. Women’s teams: NZ leads, including 2024 T20 final win.
Franchise cricket builds bonds—players share dressing rooms in SA20/IPL. Rob Walter (ex-SA coach, now NZ) adds intrigue: “No secrets—just execution.”
Mutual respect shines: Matt Henry calls it “exciting,” Markram praises similar underdog hunger. Rugby parallels (Boks 4-3 All Blacks in World Cups) add flavor. This Valentine’s Day clash celebrates that bromance—fierce yet friendly.
Key Battles That Will Decide the Match
NZ vs SA key battles T20 World Cup 2026 could define the outcome:
- Kagiso Rabada vs Finn Allen/Rachin Ravindra — Pace vs aggressive openers.
- Keshav Maharaj vs NZ left-handers (4 in top order)—spin trap.
- Lockie Ferguson vs Quinton de Kock — Express pace vs explosive start.
- Marco Jansen vs Glenn Phillips — All-round duel.
- Death overs: Ngidi/Rabada vs Miller/Stubbs — Finishers vs yorkers.
Tactics: NZ exploits spin; SA targets top order early. Dew favors chasers. Which battle excites you most?
Match Prediction and Final Thoughts
New Zealand vs South Africa prediction T20 World Cup 2026: A thriller! NZ’s recent H2H edge, superior NRR (+1.919 vs +1.425), and left-hand batting vs Maharaj give slight advantage. Dew and chasing favor make toss key.
Prediction: New Zealand win (55-60% chance), possibly by 15-20 runs or 5-6 wickets. Expect 180-210 totals; momentum into Super Eights.
This match matters for pride and rhythm. Enjoy the spirit—two humble, competitive nations delivering T20 magic. Share your thoughts—who wins and why? Celebrate the game! 🏏❤️
FAQs for “New Zealand vs South Africa T20 World Cup 2026: Ultimate Preview Guide”
1. What is the date and time for New Zealand vs South Africa T20 World Cup 2026? The New Zealand vs South Africa T20 World Cup 2026 24th match is on February 14, 2026 (Valentine’s Day) at 7:00 PM IST (1:30 PM GMT) at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. Perfect evening timing for fans worldwide!
2. Where is the NZ vs SA 24th match Group D being played in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026? The NZ vs SA 24th match in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Group D takes place at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, India. This massive 132,000-capacity venue promises an electric atmosphere for the Southern Hemisphere clash.
3. What is the pitch report for Narendra Modi Stadium in New Zealand vs South Africa T20 World Cup 2026? The Narendra Modi Stadium pitch for New Zealand vs South Africa T20 World Cup 2026 is red-soil, flat, and batter-friendly with true bounce. Expect 180-200+ scores. Heavy dew in the night game will favour chasing—toss winner likely bowls first.
4. Who is predicted to win the New Zealand vs South Africa T20 World Cup 2026 match? In our New Zealand vs South Africa T20 World Cup 2026 prediction, New Zealand edges it with 55-60% chance. Recent H2H dominance (4 of last 5 wins), superior NRR, and left-hand batting vs spin give the Black Caps the edge in this low-stakes thriller.
5. What are the probable playing XIs for NZ vs SA in T20 World Cup 2026? New Zealand vs South Africa T20 World Cup 2026 For New Zealand: Seifert, Allen, Ravindra, Phillips, Mitchell, Chapman, Santner (c), Neesham, Henry, Ferguson, Duffy. For South Africa: Markram (c), de Kock (wk), Rickelton, Brevis, Miller, Stubbs, Jansen, Bosch, Rabada, Maharaj, Ngidi. Bosch returns to counter NZ left-handers.
6. How to watch New Zealand vs South Africa T20 World Cup 2026 live in India? Catch New Zealand vs South Africa T20 World Cup 2026 live on Star Sports Network (TV) and JioHotstar (streaming). Global fans can tune into SuperSport (SA), Sky Sport (NZ), or ICC.tv. Don’t miss this Group D blockbuster!
7. What is the head-to-head record in NZ vs SA T20 matches? New Zealand vs South Africa T20 World Cup 2026 In T20Is, South Africa leads overall (11-6), but New Zealand dominates recently (won last 4). In T20 World Cups, SA has won all 4 past meetings—last in 2014. Expect fireworks in this 24th match preview.
8. Which players to watch in New Zealand vs South Africa 24th match T20 World Cup 2026? New Zealand vs South Africa T20 World Cup 2026 Key stars: Quinton de Kock (nearing 3000 T20I runs), Kagiso Rabada (regaining form), Tim Seifert (red-hot SR 174+), and Rachin Ravindra (targeting spin). These players can decide the NZ vs SA T20 World Cup 2026 clash.
9. Will dew affect the New Zealand vs South Africa match at Narendra Modi Stadium? Yes! Heavy dew is expected in the night New Zealand vs South Africa T20 World Cup 2026 match at Narendra Modi Stadium. It makes the ball slippery, heavily favouring the team batting second—toss becomes crucial.
10. Why watch NZ vs SA despite both teams qualifying for Super Eights? Even though both have qualified, the New Zealand vs South Africa T20 World Cup 2026 match is about pride, momentum for Super Eights, and settling recent scores. The historic rivalry plus high-quality T20 cricket makes it unmissable!