New Zealand vs South Africa – Match 24 Preview | T20 World Cup 2026
Ahmedabad gears up for a blockbuster encounter as New Zealand take on South Africa in Match 24 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. With a Super Eight berth potentially on the line, both teams know the stakes could not be higher.
Match Details
- Fixture: New Zealand vs South Africa – Match 24
- Date: 14 February 2026
- Time: 19:00 Local (13:30 GMT)
- Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
New Zealand’s Campaign
The Black Caps have begun strongly, chasing down competitive totals with authority. Tim Seifert has led the batting charge, while the middle order has looked composed under pressure.
However, their bowling has occasionally leaked runs, especially in high-scoring venues. Ahmedabad’s batting-friendly surface could test their attack once again.
South Africa’s Position
South Africa have displayed resilience, particularly in pressure situations. Their recent thriller against Afghanistan highlighted their mental strength. With familiarity at the Ahmedabad venue, having played previous matches here, they may hold a slight edge in reading conditions.
Head-to-Head Record (T20)
- New Zealand Wins: 7
- South Africa Wins: 11
- Win Percentage: SA 61.11% | NZ 38.89%
South Africa also hold a strong historical record against New Zealand in T20 World Cups.
Pitch Report – Ahmedabad
- High-scoring surface
- Dew factor likely in evening
- Chasing teams often benefit
- Fast outfield and short boundaries
Captains winning the toss are expected to bowl first due to dew assistance in the second innings.
Key Players to Watch
New Zealand
- Tim Seifert – Aggressive opener
- Mitchell Santner – Spin control and leadership
- Glenn Phillips – Middle-order accelerator
- Matt Henry – Powerplay wicket-taker
South Africa
- Aiden Markram – Captain and top-order anchor
- Quinton de Kock – Explosive wicketkeeper-batter
- Kagiso Rabada – Strike pacer
- Dewald Brevis – Impact finisher
Fantasy Cricket Tips – NZ vs SA
Captain Options
- Tim Seifert
- Aiden Markram
- Dewald Brevis
Vice-Captain Picks
- Mitchell Santner
- Kagiso Rabada
- Glenn Phillips
Differential Picks
- Jacob Duffy
- Marco Jansen
Probable Playing XIs
New Zealand
Tim Seifert (wk), Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner (c), James Neesham, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy
South Africa
Quinton de Kock (wk), Aiden Markram (c), Dewald Brevis, Tristan Stubbs, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, Lungi Ngidi, George Linde
Match Prediction
This promises to be a closely fought encounter. South Africa’s familiarity with the venue and strong bowling depth could give them a slight advantage. However, New Zealand’s confident batting lineup ensures this contest could swing either way.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is NZ vs SA Match 24?
The match is scheduled for 14 February 2026 at 7:00 PM local time in Ahmedabad.
Where is the match being played?
At the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad.
Who are the top fantasy picks?
Tim Seifert, Mitchell Santner, Aiden Markram, Kagiso Rabada and Dewald Brevis are strong options.
Will dew play a role?
Yes, evening conditions in Ahmedabad often produce dew, favoring teams chasing.