Eden Gardens witnessed a lower-order masterclass as South Africa’s Marco Jansen and Tristan Stubbs turned the tide against New Zealand in the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal. Their 73-run sixth-wicket partnership off 47 balls rescued South Africa from 77/5, catapulting them to 169/8 and claiming the second-best such stand in T20 World Cup playoffs.
Jansen’s explosive 55 not out (30 balls, 5×6, 2×4) was the standout, complemented by Stubbs’ gritty 29 (24 balls). This not only set a South African record for sixth-wicket or lower partnerships in T20s but also breathed life into their campaign. Brevis’ 34 provided early momentum after South Africa, sent in to bat, lost the toss.
New Zealand’s bowlers fought back with Henry, McConchie, and Ravindra taking 2/ each, but couldn’t stem the flow. The Proteas’ total sets up a mouthwatering final prospect on March 8 for the winners.
Historically, this slots in behind Stoinis-Wade’s 81* (Australia vs Pakistan, 2021). Mathews-Sangakkara’s 68* (Sri Lanka vs Pakistan, 2009 final), Bailey-Cummins 54* (Australia vs England, 2016), and Hussey-Johnson 53* (Australia vs Pakistan, 2010) complete the elite list. Jansen and Stubbs’ feat underscores South Africa’s depth, blending power and poise to challenge for the trophy in Kolkata’s cauldron.